It’s pretty unlikely to get pregnant on your period, but the idea that it’s impossible needs some serious debunking [1][2][3]. Let’s break it down.

How pregnancy could happen during your period

During your cycle, your fertility window is right around ovulation, the time when an egg is released from your ovaries. This release typically occurs around two weeks before your next period, but timing can vary, especially for those with shorter or irregular cycles. If you have a short cycle—say, 21-24 days—ovulation could happen shortly after your period ends, increasing the odds that sperm, which can live for up to five days, might still be around when you’re ovulating [2][3].

Another factor is irregular cycles. If your cycle is unpredictable, it’s harder to know when you’re ovulating. In that case, it’s more challenging to gauge when pregnancy is possible, which could increase the chance of pregnancy during or right after your period [2][3].

Factors that could increase chances of pregnancy on your period

While pregnancy during your period is still rare, certain things can increase the likelihood:

1. 1. Shorter cycles

   If you have a cycle that lasts between 21-24 days, you could ovulate shortly after your period ends. This makes it possible for sperm to survive in the body long enough to fertilize an egg [2].

2. 2. Sperm survival

   Sperm can live up to five days inside the body. If you have unprotected sex toward the end of your period, sperm could still be viable when ovulation occurs [2].

3. 3. Irregular cycles

   If your cycle is unpredictable, it’s harder to pinpoint exactly when ovulation happens. This increases the possibility of sperm being around when your egg is released [2].

The Bottom Line

The odds of getting pregnant on your period are low, but it’s not impossible. If avoiding pregnancy is the goal, consistent contraception is your best friend, no matter where you are in your cycle [1][2][3].

Tracking your cycle can also help you feel more connected to your body, whether you’re looking to conceive or not. If you’re ever unsure about timing or fertility, reaching out to a healthcare professional is always a smart move[1][2][3].

[1] Kendall @ Planned Parenthood. “Can You Get Pregnant If You Have Sex During Your Period?” Planned Parenthood, 24 Jan. 2024, https://www.plannedparenthood.org/blog/can-you-get-pregnant-if-you-have-sex-during-your-period.

[2] Madormo, Carrie, RN, MPH. “Can You Get Pregnant While on Your Period?” Verywell Health, 30 June 2025, medically reviewed by Cordelia Nwankwo, MD, https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-you-get-pregnant-while-on-period-7376639.

[3] Dunkin, Mary Anne. “Is It Possible to Get Pregnant If I Have Sex During My Period?” Mayo Clinic, 5 May 2023, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/pregnancy-during-period/faq-20057915.