Yes, a girl can get pregnant even while finishing her period. This is because sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, up to six days in some cases. If ovulation (the release of an egg) occurs shortly after the period ends, the sperm could still fertilize the egg, leading to pregnancy.
Understanding Ovulation and the Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is not a perfect predictor of fertility. While the most fertile time is generally around ovulation, which typically occurs mid-cycle, the exact timing varies from person to person. Some women have shorter cycles, and ovulation can happen earlier. Furthermore, the length of a woman's period itself also varies. This means that even if a period has just ended, it's still possible to ovulate within a few days and become pregnant from unprotected sex.
- Sperm Lifespan: Sperm can remain viable within the female reproductive system for up to 5-6 days. This means that sex even a few days before ovulation can result in pregnancy.
- Ovulation Variability: Ovulation doesn't always occur on the same day of the cycle, making it unpredictable.
- Shorter Cycles: Women with shorter menstrual cycles (less than 28 days) may ovulate sooner after their period, increasing the chances of pregnancy.
The belief that a woman cannot get pregnant during her period is a myth. While it’s less likely during menstruation, it’s certainly possible. The sources cited emphasize that pregnancy is possible at any point during the menstrual cycle, including immediately before, during, and after menstruation. The timing of ovulation is the key factor in determining the likelihood of conception.
References confirm that it's possible to get pregnant anytime you have unprotected sex, regardless of what day it is in your period (Planned Parenthood). The NHS also states that while the window for pregnancy is short (around ovulation), there is a possibility of getting pregnant even immediately after a period. Several other sources reiterate this point, emphasizing the possibility of pregnancy and the viability of sperm for several days after sex.
