Can you get pregnant from having sex during your period?

In healthy women, ovulation typically occurs approximately 14 days before the onset of the next menstrual period. The five days preceding ovulation and the three days following it constitute the fertile window—when conception is most likely. So, can pregnancy occur from intercourse during menstruation? Below, we address this question.

Can pregnancy occur from intercourse during menstruation?

The likelihood of pregnancy during menstruation is generally low. A typical menstrual period lasts 2–7 days; at this time, ovulation is still more than six days away, making conception highly unlikely. However, if vaginal bleeding occurs due to ovulation (i.e., ovulatory bleeding), intercourse during this time carries a significant risk of pregnancy. In cases of other types of abnormal uterine bleeding, it is often unclear whether ovulation has occurred, making it difficult to assess pregnancy risk accurately. Intercourse during menstruation is generally discouraged: the endometrium is shedding, creating open wounds in the uterine lining, and overall immune function declines, increasing susceptibility to infection—including endometritis, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and salpingo-oophoritis (inflammation of the fallopian tubes and ovaries). Moreover, during sexual arousal, uterine contractions may cause retrograde menstruation—where menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity—potentially leading to endometrial implantation and subsequent endometriosis. Since endometriosis can impair fertility, intercourse during menstruation should be avoided. Therefore, it is recommended to wait until menstruation has completely ended before resuming sexual activity.

Knowledge Extension: Key Considerations for Sexual Intercourse

1. Maintain hygiene

Both partners should cleanse thoroughly before and after intercourse to reduce infection risk. For individuals diagnosed with sexually transmitted infections (STIs), intercourse should be avoided until the infection has been fully treated. If intercourse cannot be postponed, consistent and correct condom use is essential to minimize cross-infection risk.

2. Practice moderation in frequency and intensity

Frequency and intensity of intercourse should be moderate. Excessive intercourse may disrupt the natural vaginal flora, increasing the risk of vaginitis and pelvic inflammatory disease. Excessive force during intercourse may cause trauma to the genital tract—including vaginal lacerations or cervical tears. Additionally, effective, consistent contraception should always be used to prevent unintended pregnancy and minimize potential harm to the uterus.

The above outlines whether pregnancy can occur from intercourse during menstruation. We hope this information is helpful to you.