Can You Get Pregnant During Your Period? Risks and Myths

Intercourse during menstruation

Hello, Doctor Huang.
Today is July 3rd, and my girlfriend is on her 6th day of her menstrual period.
We had unprotected intercourse without ejaculation.
Her menstrual cycle usually lasts about 7 days, and her cycle length is approximately 30 to 35 days.
Doctor, is there a chance of pregnancy from what we did?

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/03

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On July 3rd, my girlfriend was on the 6th day of her menstrual period.
We had unprotected intercourse but did not ejaculate inside her.
Her menstrual periods usually last 7 days, and her cycle is approximately 30 to 35 days.
Doctor, will we get pregnant from this? Answer: No, you will not get pregnant.

Reply Date: 2017/07/03

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant during your period, it's important to understand the biology of the menstrual cycle and the factors that influence fertility. While the likelihood of conception during menstruation is generally low, it is not impossible.

The menstrual cycle typically lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person, ranging from 21 to 35 days. Ovulation, which is when an egg is released from the ovary, usually occurs around the midpoint of the cycle, approximately 14 days before the start of the next period. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you have unprotected sex towards the end of your period, and you ovulate shortly after, there is a possibility that sperm could still be viable when the egg is released.

In your case, since your girlfriend's menstrual cycle is around 30 to 35 days and you had intercourse on the sixth day of her period, the chances of pregnancy are relatively low. However, if her cycle is shorter or if she ovulates earlier than expected, there is still a small risk of pregnancy. It’s also worth noting that some women may experience irregular cycles or variations in ovulation timing, which can further complicate predictions.

Additionally, there are several myths surrounding menstruation and fertility. One common misconception is that it is completely safe to have unprotected sex during menstruation. While the risk of pregnancy is lower, it is not zero. Moreover, engaging in sexual activity during menstruation can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to the presence of blood, which can provide a pathway for pathogens.

If you and your girlfriend are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it may be beneficial to consider contraceptive methods to reduce the risk. Options include hormonal birth control, condoms, or other barrier methods. If you are looking for a more reliable way to track ovulation and fertility, there are various apps and ovulation kits available that can help you understand her cycle better.

In conclusion, while the chances of getting pregnant during your girlfriend's period are low, they are not nonexistent. It is essential to communicate openly with your partner about sexual health and contraception to make informed decisions. If you have further concerns or questions about fertility, menstrual health, or contraception, consulting a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance and support.

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