Can You Get Pregnant on the First Day of Your Period?

Having intercourse on the first day of menstruation?

Hello doctor, I accidentally had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend on the night of the first day of my period.
We did not use a condom and there was no ejaculation inside.
Is it possible for me to get pregnant?

Xin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/11

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If you had unprotected intercourse on the first night of your period and there was no ejaculation inside, is it possible to get pregnant? Answer: It is unlikely to get pregnant in this situation.

Reply Date: 2018/12/11

More Info

Getting pregnant on the first day of your period is generally considered unlikely, but it is not impossible. To understand this better, we need to look at the menstrual cycle and the factors that influence ovulation and fertility.

The menstrual cycle typically lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person, ranging from 21 to 35 days. The cycle begins on the first day of menstruation (the first day of your period) and ends the day before your next period starts. Ovulation, which is when an egg is released from the ovary, usually occurs around the midpoint of the cycle. For a standard 28-day cycle, ovulation typically occurs around day 14.
Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, which means that if you have unprotected intercourse close to your ovulation date, there is a chance that sperm could still be viable when the egg is released. Therefore, if you have unprotected sex during your period, and you ovulate shortly after your period ends, there is a small chance that sperm could still be present and fertilize the egg.

In your specific situation, having unprotected intercourse on the first day of your period is less likely to result in pregnancy because it is typically considered a time when you are least fertile. However, if your menstrual cycle is shorter than average, or if you have irregular cycles, ovulation could occur sooner than expected, increasing the risk of pregnancy.

Additionally, it’s important to consider that menstrual bleeding can sometimes be mistaken for a period when it is actually implantation bleeding, which occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This can happen around the time you would expect your period, leading to confusion about whether you are actually menstruating or experiencing early pregnancy symptoms.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy after having unprotected sex, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test if your period is late. If you are looking for immediate reassurance, emergency contraception (like the morning-after pill) can be taken within a few days after unprotected intercourse to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

In summary, while the likelihood of getting pregnant on the first day of your period is low, it is not impossible, especially if you have a shorter cycle or irregular ovulation. If you have further concerns about your menstrual cycle, fertility, or contraception options, it would be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your health history and circumstances.

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