Can You Get Pregnant During Your Period? the Risks

Can I get pregnant?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if having intercourse during menstruation generally leads to pregnancy.
I used my hand to touch the vaginal opening a few days after my period, and it seems that I may have come into contact with some fluid on the glans.
There was no ejaculation, so it should be prostate fluid.
It is correct that ovulation does not occur during menstruation, right? Is there a chance of getting pregnant in this situation?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/12

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is best to take preventive measures beforehand.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/01/12

More Info

Having sexual intercourse during menstruation is a topic that often raises questions regarding the possibility of pregnancy and associated risks. Generally, the likelihood of becoming pregnant during your period is low, but it is not impossible. To understand this better, let's break down the menstrual cycle and the factors that influence conception.

The menstrual cycle typically lasts about 28 days, although it can vary from person to person. It consists of several phases: the menstrual phase (when bleeding occurs), the follicular phase (when the body prepares for ovulation), ovulation (when an egg is released), and the luteal phase (when the body prepares for a potential pregnancy). Ovulation usually occurs around the midpoint of the cycle, approximately 14 days before the next period starts.
During menstruation, which usually lasts from 3 to 7 days, the body is shedding the uterine lining, and the chances of ovulation are low. However, sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days. If you have a shorter menstrual cycle or if you ovulate soon after your period ends, there is a possibility that sperm could still be present when ovulation occurs, leading to a potential pregnancy.

In your case, you mentioned having sexual intercourse during the latter part of your period and that there was contact with pre-ejaculatory fluid (also known as pre-cum). While pre-ejaculatory fluid typically does not contain sperm, it can sometimes carry sperm if there are remnants from a previous ejaculation. Therefore, if there was any sperm present in the pre-ejaculatory fluid, there is a slight chance of pregnancy, especially if you have a shorter cycle or if ovulation occurs soon after your period.

It is also important to note that while the risk of pregnancy is lower during menstruation, it is not zero. Additionally, engaging in sexual activity during this time can also pose other risks, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially if protection is not used.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, the best course of action is to take a home pregnancy test if your next period is late. If you have any further concerns or experience unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

In summary, while the chances of getting pregnant during your period are low, they are not nonexistent. Understanding your menstrual cycle and the timing of ovulation can help you make informed decisions about sexual activity and contraception. If you are looking to avoid pregnancy, consider using reliable contraception methods consistently, regardless of the timing within your cycle.

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