Can You Get Pregnant During Your Period? the Risks

Can you get pregnant while on your period?

Hello, doctor.
I am 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 due on September 26, but she started her period early on September 23, which lasted for six days.
She said it was a normal menstrual cycle.
The app estimated her next period would start around October 21, but as of today, October 22, it is one day late and has not arrived.
My girlfriend reports that she feels fine and has no signs of pregnancy.
I would like to ask the doctor if there is still a possibility of pregnancy in this situation, as my girlfriend and I are both very anxious about it.
Thank you for your hard work, doctor.

cy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/22

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, since your menstrual period has arrived, it is unlikely that you are pregnant.
You can wait and see.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/10/22

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 becoming pregnant during menstruation is relatively low, it is not impossible.

The menstrual cycle typically lasts about 28 days, although it can vary from person to person. Ovulation, which is when an egg is released from the ovary, usually occurs around the midpoint of the cycle, approximately 14 days before the next period starts. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, which means that if you have unprotected sex towards the end of your period, and you ovulate shortly thereafter, there is a possibility of sperm being present when the egg is released.

In your case, you mentioned that you had intercourse on September 14, and your girlfriend's next expected period was on September 26. The fact that her period came early on September 23 and lasted for six days suggests that her body was functioning normally, and it is likely that she was not ovulating at that time. However, since the condom broke, there is always a slight risk of pregnancy, especially if any sperm was present.

You also mentioned that your girlfriend took emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill"), which is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. This medication is most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but it can still be effective up to five days later. The use of emergency contraception can cause changes in the menstrual cycle, including earlier or delayed periods, which may explain why her period was early in September and why her next expected period was delayed.

As for the current situation where her period is late, it’s understandable that both of you are feeling anxious. Stress and anxiety can also affect menstrual cycles, potentially causing delays. Since she has not experienced any signs of pregnancy, such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue, and given that she has a history of regular cycles, the chances of her being pregnant are low. However, the only way to confirm this is through a pregnancy test.

If her period does not arrive soon, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are generally reliable and can provide peace of mind. If the test is negative and her period still does not come, it may be worth consulting a healthcare provider to explore any underlying issues that could be affecting her cycle.

In summary, while it is possible to get pregnant during your period, the chances are low, especially with the use of emergency contraception. It’s important to monitor her menstrual cycle and consider taking a pregnancy test if her period does not arrive. Communication and support between you and your girlfriend during this time are crucial to managing anxiety and ensuring both of you feel secure in your relationship.

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