It is generally unlikely to get pregnant just before your period , but it is still possible depending on individual factors such as cycle length and timing of ovulation. Pregnancy can happen only during a fertile window around ovulation, typically about 10 to 16 days before your next period. Since the egg lives for only about 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, and sperm can survive up to 5 days inside the reproductive tract, having sex right before your period usually falls outside this fertile window. However, if you have a short or irregular cycle, ovulation may occur later or earlier, creating a small chance of pregnancy even close to your period. Key points:
- The fertile window is usually 5-6 days around ovulation, which happens about midway through the cycle.
- The days immediately before your period are generally low fertility days, but not zero risk.
- Sperm survival duration means conception could occur if ovulation timing is atypical.
- Women with shorter cycles may ovulate closer to their period, increasing pregnancy chances near the period days.
- Having sex two to three days before the period makes pregnancy very unlikely but not impossible.
In summary, getting pregnant just before your period is rare but possible, especially if menstrual cycles are irregular or short.
