Can I get pregnant if I have sex during my period?
17 Nov 2003

Many people think women can't get pregnant during their period because there is no egg present to be fertilized. This is untrue. A woman can get pregnant during her period for these reasons:

• Sperm can remain active for up to 3 days after ejaculation. This may be enough time for another egg to be released and fertilised, especially if the woman is having periods about 2 to 3 weeks apart.
• Sometimes ovulation can happen before menstrual bleeding has stopped. Again, this means there would be an egg ready to be fertilized.
• Sometimes a woman may think she is having her period, but it is actually some vaginal bleeding other than menstrual bleeding.

To protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, it is best to use contraception, such as a condom.

To learn more check out our topics:
Contraception
Sexually transmitted infections
Pregnancy: options
Safer sex

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