Skip to main content

Can I get pregnant just after my period has finished?

Yes, although it's not very likely. If you have sex without using contraception at any time during your menstrual cycle, including during or just after your period, there's a chance you could get pregnant.

You can also get pregnant if you have never had a period before, during your first period, or after the first time you have sex.

There's no "safe" time of the month when you can have sex without contraception and not risk becoming pregnant.

But there are times in your menstrual cycle when you're at your most fertile, and this is when you're most likely to conceive.

Understanding your menstrual cycle

Your menstrual cycle begins on the first day of your period and continues up to the first day of your next period.

You're most fertile at the time of ovulation (when an egg is released from your ovaries), which usually occurs 12 to 14 days before your next period starts. This is the time of the month when you're most likely to get pregnant.

It's important to remember that sperm can sometimes survive in the body for up to 7 days after you have sex. If you ovulate within 7 days of having sex, there’s a chance you could get pregnant.

This means it may be possible to get pregnant soon after your period finishes if you ovulate early, especially if you have a naturally short menstrual cycle.

You should always use contraception when you have sex if you don't want to become pregnant.

Further information:

Page last reviewed: 8 July 2021
Next review due: 8 July 2024