Can you get pregnant from having sex a few days before your period starts?

Whether having intercourse a few days before menstruation can lead to pregnancy depends on whether the individual has ovulated, and should be evaluated under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Yes

Although the period around ovulation is the peak fertility window in the menstrual cycle, some women have irregular cycles, causing variations in ovulation timing. Ovulation may still occur a few days before menstruation begins. If contraception is not used at this time, pregnancy is possible.

2. No

For women with regular menstrual cycles in whom the ovulation period has already passed, sperm typically survive in the female body for up to 3–5 days. Having intercourse several days before menstruation means that sperm would no longer be viable by the time an egg is released, making pregnancy unlikely.

If pregnancy is not desired, it is essential to use effective contraception during intercourse to prevent unintended pregnancy and potential harm to health.