The number of safe days after menstruation when the risk of pregnancy is low varies depending on the length and regularity of a woman's menstrual cycle. Generally:
- Ovulation usually occurs about 14 days before the start of the next period.
- Sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for up to 5-7 days.
- If a woman has a typical 28-day cycle, ovulation happens around day 14, so the days just after menstruation may have a lower risk for pregnancy.
- However, if the menstrual cycle is short (e.g., 22 days) or irregular, ovulation can occur soon after the period ends, making pregnancy possible even a few days after menstruation.
- There is no absolutely "safe" time after menstruation without contraception, as pregnancy can occur if ovulation happens early or sperm survives.
To minimize pregnancy risk, sex is generally considered safer starting around 7-10 days after menstruation ends, but this depends on individual cycle length. Using contraception is the most reliable way to avoid pregnancy at any time. In summary, the "safe" days after menstruation vary by cycle but generally begin about a week after the period, acknowledging that there is always some risk of pregnancy if having unprotected sex shortly after menstruation.
