Your questions answered: can you get pregnant on your period?
Have you ever wondered, “Can you get pregnant on your period?” It’s a common question. And getting the information you need is a way to empower yourself.
Here’s the reality: while tracking your period can give you some insight into your fertility, it’s not a foolproof method for preventing pregnancy.
There’s actually only one way to 100% avoid pregnancy, and tracking your period isn’t it. The only completely reliable way to prevent pregnancy is to postpone sex until you’re fully prepared to face that possibility. Here at ThriVe+, we want to provide the information you need to make decisions about your body and health.
Take this little quiz, and you’ll leave knowing a bit more about your cycle. Knowledge = power!
“Can you get pregnant on your period?”

Question 1: During which stage of the menstrual cycle does ovulation usually happen?
A. During your period (Menstrual Phase)
B. Right after your period (Follicular Phase)
C. Mid-cycle, around 10 to 14 days before your next period (Ovulatory Phase)
D. Just before your next period starts (Luteal Phase)
Answer: C. Mid-cycle, around 10 to 14 days before your next period (Ovulatory Phase)
Explanation: Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovary. It usually happens around the middle of your menstrual cycle. This is when you’re most fertile. This time is when you’re most at risk of becoming pregnant if you have sex.1
Question 2: How long can sperm survive inside the female reproductive system?
A. Up to 24 hours
B. Up to 3 days
C. Up to 5 days
D. Up to 7 days
Answer: C. Up to 5 days
Explanation: Sperm can survive inside of you for up to 5 days! So if you have sex in the days leading up to ovulation, there’s a chance sperm can still be present when the egg is released. So if you’re asking, “can you get pregnant on your period,” it’s a possibility. If your cycle is short or changes, the sperm might still be present during your period.2
Question 3: How much does the timing of ovulation vary among women?
A. Not at all, it’s always mid-cycle
B. Slightly, by a day or two
C. Greatly, it can be unpredictable
D. It never varies; it’s the same for everyone
Answer: C. Greatly, it can be unpredictable
Explanation: The timing of ovulation can change, even from cycle to cycle within the same person. Factors like stress, illness, and lifestyle habits can all affect when ovulation occurs.1
Question 4: During which phase of the menstrual cycle is it always safe to have sex if you want to avoid pregnancy?
A. The luteal phase
B. There’s no completely “safe” phase
C. The ovulatory phase
D. The menstrual phase
Answer: B. There’s no completely “safe” phase
Explanation: While the risk of pregnancy is lower during certain phases of the menstrual cycle, there’s no phase that guarantees 100% protection against pregnancy. If you want to avoid pregnancy, it’s best to postpone sex altogether.3
So, did you learn anything new? Do you feel like you have the answer to the question, “can you get pregnant on your period?” If you’re getting information about how your cycle works, we think it’s awesome that you’re digging deeper to take charge of your health! We totally support you in that; you deserve to feel confident.

Taking charge of your health
Maybe you’re here to learn more, or maybe there’s something else.
- Are you being pressured to have sex on your period?
- Are you worried about getting pregnant?
- Perhaps your partner thinks your period is a safe time to have sex.
You should never feel pressured into having sex. I It’s okay to have boundaries, especially in your relationship. It’s worth talking to your partner about how you feel.
At ThriVe+, we’re all about empowering women with information about sexual health. We offer a range of no-cost services including lab-quality pregnancy tests for reliable, confidential results. Pre-abortion screenings are also no-cost and can help you know what the next step might be for you. Remember, knowledge is power. You have plans for your future. Be informed so you can take charge of your health and chase your dreams. You deserve it.
Sources:
2https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/pregnancy/faq-20058504