Can you get pregnant during your period?

Is it possible to get pregnant during your period, even theoretically? This question is interesting to any woman who is sexually active, whether she is trying to get pregnant, or trying to prevent a pregnancy. The answer is less clear. Some experts say that it is not possible to get pregnant during a menstrual period, while others claim it is. We have concluded that getting pregnant during your period is probably possible, but it is a very rare occurrence. Let's examine what the average woman's cycle looks like first, to be able to understand why some women may in fact get pregnant during their menstruation.

The average menstrual cycle lasts somewhere from 28 to 31 days, from the start of one period to the start of the next. Ovulation, the release of an egg and the woman's most fertile period, typically occurs somewhere in the middle of the cycle, at day 14 or so. But it is important to understand that every woman's cycles are different. Some women have long cycles, others have short cycles, and others again have irregular cycles that are unpredictable. What kind of cycle could cause you to become pregnant while you are still experiencing menstrual flow? One that is unusually short, with ovulation occurring just after the menstruation ends. Keep in mind that sperm can survive for up to five days in a woman's body, and it becomes clear that it might very well be possible for some women to conceive during their period.

Having said that, we have to add two warnings. First of all, having intercourse during your period is not your best bet at getting pregnant, and if you are trying to conceive it is helpful to get to know your cycle and make sure you know when you ovulate. You can do this with the help of an ovulation calendar, or by charting to conceive. Secondly, if you do not want to get pregnant, use a reliable contraception method, such as the birth control pill or condom to decrease your chances of conceiving. And remember, no birth control method is a 100 percent effective, except for being celibate. That will do the trick every time :).