In India, discussing intimacy during menstruation is often considered taboo. However, for couples trying to conceive or those trying to avoid pregnancy, this is a very important medical question.
Many people believe that a woman cannot get pregnant if she has intercourse during her period. While the chances are lower compared to other days, it is NOT impossible.
At Ferty9 Fertility Center, we believe in replacing myths with medical facts. Whether you are worried about an accidental pregnancy or trying to understand your fertility better, here is a simple breakdown of what happens inside your body when sperm enters during menstruation.
The Big Question: Can I Get Pregnant?
The short answer is: Yes, it is possible.
While it is unlikely for most women, pregnancy can occur from sex during your period. To understand why, you need to understand two key timelines:
- The Lifespan of the Egg: 24 hours.
- The Lifespan of the Sperm: Up to 5 days.
How Does It Happen? (The Math)
Sperm are survivors. Once they enter the body, they can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days.
If you have a short menstrual cycle (e.g., 21 to 24 days), you might ovulate (release an egg) very soon after your period stops.
- Scenario: You have intercourse on Day 4 of your period. The sperm swim up and wait.
- Result: You stop bleeding on Day 5, and due to a short cycle, you ovulate on Day 8 or 9. The sperm from Day 4 are still alive and waiting to fertilize the egg.
Does Period Blood Kill Sperm?
No. This is a common myth. While period blood changes the pH level of the vagina, healthy sperm are programmed to swim quickly out of the vaginal canal and into the cervix and uterus. Once they reach the cervix, they are protected from the acidic environment and can survive happily for days, waiting for an egg.
Are There Any Risks?
From a medical standpoint, having sperm enter the body during a period is generally safe for both partners. However, there are a few hygiene and health points to consider:
1. Increased Risk of Infection
During menstruation, the cervix (the opening to the uterus) opens slightly to let blood out. This makes it easier for bacteria or viruses to travel up into the uterus.
- If either partner has an infection (like a yeast infection or STI), the risk of transmitting it is higher during this time.
2. Endometriosis Concerns
There is a medical theory regarding “Retrograde Menstruation”—where blood flows backward into the fallopian tubes instead of out of the body. While intimacy doesn’t cause endometriosis, some doctors suggest that deep penetration during heavy flow days might push some menstrual tissue backward. However, this varies from person to person.
Should You Try This to Conceive?
If you are actively trying to have a baby, having intercourse during your period is usually not the most effective time.
- The Best Time: The “Fertile Window” usually starts a few days after your period ends (around Day 10 to Day 16 of a standard cycle).
- The Exception: If you have extremely short cycles, the last days of your period might overlap with your fertile window.
Summary
So, what happens if sperm goes inside during your period?
- It swims up: It moves toward the fallopian tubes just like on any other day.
- It waits: It can survive for up to 5 days.
- Pregnancy is rare but possible: Especially if you have short or irregular cycles.
The Bottom Line: If you are trying to avoid pregnancy, do not rely on your period as a form of contraception. If you are trying to conceive and having trouble, understanding your specific ovulation timing is crucial. Confused about your cycle? Book a consultation with Ferty9 Fertility Center to track your exact fertile days and plan your pregnancy effectively.
