If I have sex on my period without using a condom, can I still get pregnant?

If you are having unprotected sex, even if you are on your period, there is a risk for pregnancy. The length of time between the beginning of menstruation and ovulation can vary from month to month based upon a woman’s hormonal balance.  In some women, ovulation can occur before menstrual bleeding has stopped, allowing a woman to be fertile during her period.  Additionally, sperm can survive inside a woman’s body for 2-3 days under normal conditions.  If a woman ovulates several days after bleeding has stopped, she may become pregnant from sperm deposited during the menstrual intercourse.  Many women may also experience bleeding during ovulation, which can be mistaken for menstruation.  The best way to avoid pregnancy is to use forms of birth control consistently and correctly. For birth control options, check out our pages on Prevention Methods or call Teen Clinic at 303.442.5160 for a personalized consult..

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