Can You Get Pregnant During Your Period? Risks and Myths

Can you get pregnant while on your period?

Hello, doctor.
I'm feeling quite anxious, so I wanted to ask a question.
On September 14, I had intercourse with my girlfriend, but the condom broke.
There was no ejaculation inside, and she took emergency contraception.
Her estimated next menstrual period was on September 26, but she started her period early on September 23, which lasted for six days.
She mentioned that the flow (light on the first day, heavier on the second and third days, and gradually lighter in the last three days), the duration (6 days), and the cycle (28 days) were similar to her previous patterns.
The app predicts her next period will start around October 21.
I would like to ask the doctor, if her period does indeed come around October 21, can we rule out the possibility of pregnancy? We are both very anxious about this, and I would appreciate your opinion.
Thank you for your hard work, doctor.

cy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/10

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if your menstrual period has arrived, it means you are not pregnant.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/10/10

More Info

It's understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of pregnancy, especially after an incident where a condom broke. Let's clarify some points regarding the likelihood of getting pregnant during menstruation and the implications of your situation.

First, while it is less common to conceive during menstruation, it is not impossible. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days. If your girlfriend has a shorter menstrual cycle, ovulation could occur soon after her period ends, which means that if sperm is present from intercourse during her period, there is a chance of fertilization. However, in your case, since your girlfriend's menstrual cycle is typically 28 days and she experienced a normal period starting on September 23, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced.

The fact that her period arrived on time, lasted for six days, and followed her usual pattern (with varying flow) suggests that her body is functioning normally. If her next expected period is on October 21 and she experiences it as anticipated, it would be a strong indicator that she is not pregnant. Menstrual cycles can sometimes be affected by stress, hormonal changes, or other factors, but a regular period is generally a reliable sign that pregnancy has not occurred.

Regarding the use of emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill"), it is effective in preventing pregnancy if taken within a certain time frame after unprotected intercourse. Since you mentioned that your girlfriend took it after the condom broke, this further reduces the likelihood of pregnancy. Emergency contraception works primarily by delaying ovulation, and if ovulation has not yet occurred, it can effectively prevent fertilization.

It's important to note that anxiety about potential pregnancy can sometimes lead to increased stress, which can affect both partners. If the anxiety persists, it may be beneficial to discuss these feelings with a healthcare professional who can provide support and guidance.

In summary, if your girlfriend has a regular menstrual cycle and experiences her period as expected, the chances of her being pregnant are low. However, if there are any doubts or unusual symptoms, it may be wise for her to take a home pregnancy test after her missed period or consult a healthcare provider for further reassurance. Open communication between you and your girlfriend about your concerns can also help alleviate some of the anxiety you both are experiencing.

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