The chances of getting pregnant during your period are generally low but not impossible. Here are the key points explaining why:

• Pregnancy is most likely to occur around ovulation, which typically happens about 10 to 16 days before the start of the next period in an average 28- to 30-day cycle. During ovulation, an egg is released and can be fertilized within 12 to 24 hours

• Sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days. Therefore, if you have sex toward the end of your period and ovulate shortly after, sperm may still be viable to fertilize the egg, increasing the chance of pregnancy

• Women with shorter menstrual cycles (e.g., 21 to 24 days) are more likely to ovulate earlier, which means having sex during or right after the period can lead to pregnancy due to sperm longevity

• The probability of pregnancy during the first days of menstruation is very low, but it gradually increases towards the end of the period and immediately after, as this may coincide with the fertile window

• Having sex right before your period is generally considered a low-risk time for pregnancy because ovulation has passed and the egg is no longer viable

In summary, while the chances of conceiving during your period are low, especially in the early days of bleeding, it is still possible, particularly if you have a short cycle or irregular ovulation. Using contraception consistently is the best way to prevent pregnancy regardless of the timing in your cycle