Is It True You Can't Get Pregnant on Your Period?

The menstrual cycle typically lasts about 28 days, though it can vary from 21 to 35 days. It's divided into four phases: menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase. During menstruation (day 1-5), the uterine lining sheds if there is no pregnancy. After that, the follicular phase involves the maturation of eggs.

In the follicular phase (days 6-14), the body prepares for ovulation. Ovulation occurs around the middle of the cycle when an egg is released (day 14, on average). The luteal phase (days 15-28) follows, where if fertilization does not occur, hormone levels drop, leading to menstruation.

Ovulation is the period when a woman is most fertile. Typically, it occurs about 14 days before the next expected period. Sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for 3-5 days, meaning that having unprotected sex in the days leading up to ovulation can result in pregnancy.

While it is less likely to conceive during menstruation, it is not impossible. If a woman has a shorter cycle and ovulates soon after the menstrual phase, sperm present from intercourse might lead to fertilization.

Several factors can affect the chances of pregnancy, such as cycle irregularities, the timing of ovulation, and individual fertility health. Women with irregular cycles may find ovulation harder to predict.

Women can track their menstrual cycles using various methods (apps, calendars, or basal body temperature) to better understand their ovulation patterns. This information may help in understanding their fertility window.

In summary, while the likelihood of conceiving during your period is low, it is not impossible. Understanding your menstrual cycle can better inform you about your chances of becoming pregnant.