Can you get pregnant right after your period?

Short answer: yes, you can. The chance depends on your cycle length, ovulation timing, and whether there was unprotected sex in the days right after bleeding.

Many people think the first days after a period are always safe, but cycles can shift — and that is normal.

Why pregnancy is possible after a period

Pregnancy happens when sperm meets an egg.

Sperm does not disappear immediately after sex: it can usually survive up to 5 days in the reproductive tract, sometimes a bit longer in favorable conditions. So if ovulation happens earlier than expected, conception is possible even after sex right after your period.

When the risk is higher

Risk is higher if:

• your cycle is short (for example, 21–24 days);
• ovulation happens early;
• your cycle is irregular;
• bleeding lasts longer than usual;
• sex was unprotected.

When the risk is lower (but not zero)

Risk is usually lower with a stable longer cycle and reliable contraception. But relying only on calendar counting is not very dependable.

What to do after unprotected sex

1. Don’t panic.
2. Consider emergency contraception as early as possible.
3. Take a pregnancy test about 14 days after sex, or on the first day of missed period.
4. If unsure, a blood hCG test can help earlier.

When to seek medical care urgently

Seek care quickly if you have severe lower abdominal pain, fainting, unusual bleeding, or a positive test with pain/spotting.

Bottom line

Yes, pregnancy right after a period is possible. If pregnancy is not planned, use reliable contraception and do not rely only on “safe days”.