Web posted February 24, 1998

``My boyfriend and I are having sex and he begged me to get on birth control pills and I did. He says that now I can't get pregnant -- but I think I can. Am I right?''

YOU ANSWERED:

``Baby, any time you lay down you have a chance to get pregnant. That's how I got pregnant -- not thinking that I could.''

``You are right. Birth control pills help prevent it -- but it could happen.''

``Birth control's not 100 percent, only abstinence is. You are right.''

Kay Scott, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Georgia says: If she started birth control pills the day right after her period she needs to use them a full cycle before she can count on it to be effective. You have to have a full cycle. It's 99 percent effective if it's used correctly. Since you're a teen-ager, you should stop and think it over -- are you ready emotionally and physically for a sexual relationship? Also, be sure to take your pills every day, and it's best to take them around the same time every day because they're low dosage. Also, make sure your boyfriend uses a condom so you both are protected from sexually transmitted diseases.

NEXT WEEK'S PROBLEM

I really want to get a job -- but my boyfriend says if I do, then we won't be able to spend enough time together. But I really need the money for summer school and clothes because I don't live with my parents, I live with my sister. What should I do?

Do you have any advice for this Augusta girl? Call the Advice Line at 442-4444 and press 8614. You'll have one minute to answer. Got a problem? Call 442-4444 and press 8613. You'll have one minute to give us your situation. Please state your age and the town you live in.