I am a 26 year old female and I have a lot of concerns about taking hormonal birth control pills. A few years ago, I had started taking Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo. I was only on it for a few months, taking the pill on time (though I missed one and doubled up the next day). I ended up getting pregnant while using the pill and had an abortion.

Immediately after the procedure, I began taking Ortho Cyclen, as the doctors were concerned that the low dosage of hormones was not enough the first time around. With Ortho Cyclen, I felt horrible: bad cramps, extreme mood swings, bloating, etc. My period was coming early every month, before I even started the Placebo pills. I felt so horrible most of the time and was afraid it wasn't working (due to the early menstruation) so I went off the medication and switched to condoms.

After using condoms for about 2 years, I ended up becoming pregnant while using a condom (no noticeable breakage or leaks) and had another abortion procedure. I have been put on another pill: Microgestin Fe 1/20. I have not had many of the side effects as before, but I also did not get my period this month. I was told at the clinic that if I took the pills on time every day (I have done this RELIGIOUSLY) that I would start during the week of placebo pills. I did not and have had feelings that are typical for me when I am ovulating. My concern: I thought I was not supposed to be ovulating?

I am concerned that (1) the hormonal birth control pills are not working effctively. If I do NOT get my period during the placebo pills- does that mean that the dosage is too low and the pills are failing to do what they are intended to do. I am overweight (190 lbs.) and have read that this can affect the efficacy of the pill. Is that what is happening?

I have resorted to this, because every time I see a doctor they assure me that everything is fine and just recommend another pill or another method. I am tired of repeating this process. I just want to know that I am protected. I am in a long term relationship and we currently have no sex life whatsoever.

How do I know if these pills are working? What can I do to properly protect myself? What questions should I ask my doctor? What tests can I get done to determine if the pills are working and if I have some sort of hormonal imbalance that causes difficulties with this form of birth control.

Please help!!!