• Published on: Aug 28, 2021
  • 4 minute read
  • By: Dr Rachana Choudhary

Can You Get Pregnant During Your Period? How Likely Is It?

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Can you get pregnant during your period? How likely is it?

In theory, you can get pregnant on your period. The chances of getting pregnant range between 1% to 5%, depending on when you ovulated and when your menstrual cycle starts.

Note: First talk with gynaecologist before trying anything here. They'll help figure out the best time for you to start an experiment (and take pills that will prevent pregnancy) - so any attempts are low-risk due to those precautions!

Lesson One: Doctor What's a Good Time?  If you're not ready for a child right now (or want one now), have follow-ups with the gynaecology doctor about what would be the best time for experimenting without risking it more than necessary (which is what makes following guidelines important).

If a woman is ovulating, it is possible to get pregnant. Ovulation can happen at any point during the menstrual cycle and women have an average of 14-24 eggs maturing in their ovaries at any given time. Sperm are known to remain alive inside the body for 5 days, so there's plenty of opportunity for pregnancy while on your period.

Sperm can survive outside the uterus for about 5 days after sex if deposited into fertile cervical mucus. The female reproductive tract becomes receptive to fertilization only about two days before ovulation takes place (release of an egg from one of the ovaries). But sperm may stay viable inside you or your partner's body anywhere from 3 up to five full days It is possible to become pregnant on your period. Though, it is not that common.

The average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days, from the day after your last one begins until the first day of the following cycle. That means you can get pregnant about two weeks out of every four—so 12 months out of every year and around 25% of a year. But for many women (10% or more), periods are irregular which makes contraceptive choices tricky when trying to track ovulation cycles and so more difficult to stay safe from pregnancy without risking an unplanned baby or STI exposure to have sex with their partner if they haven’t been using condoms during intercourse was broken hormonal contraceptive pill use so far during this new cycle Answer: This is more likely. The male orgasm happens when semen is sent into the vagina through penile ejaculation. Men usually produce millions of sperm every day and females ovulate only one egg per month, so what do you think?

I am sorry to say that some people conceive this way. But if you want to reduce your risk, it would be better for your partner to use a contraceptive like condoms or not have sex at all during your period. Other ways of getting pregnant on your period are by using in vitro fertilization or even with another man's sperm (heterosexual women can get pregnant from anal sex). The menstrual cycle is not a straight line, though it usually does start and end at the same time each month, so technically you can always get pregnant during your period. As doctors, we often discuss the risk of getting pregnant in terms of days past ovulation- with all other things being equal for two people who have sex on the day they ovulate (i.e., 12 days apart), one's chance of becoming pregnant is 12%. If it has been less than a day since ovulation, however, even if the female partner is bleeding (like right after her period), there is still sperm in her vagina that could potentially make its way up into her uterus and fallopian tubes enough to fertilize an egg from that cycle.

There are four indicators to know if you can get pregnant on your period. One, is the possible pregnancy? The possibility of getting pregnant in a cycle is high unless there was an illness or termination of pregnancy during that time. Two, Can women get their menstrual period while they’re pregnant? A woman's body does not produce enough natural hormones for her to have a monthly menstruation during her pregnancy because it is at its peak around the end of gestation (towards the 36 week mark). Three, Can you be fertile when on your periods?

When we ovulate our estrogen hormone levels rise and keep sperm alive up until halfway through our cycles when egg starts producing less estrogens.

It's possible because of ovulation that can happen mid-cycle. The odds change depending on certain factors like your cycles and whether you have any STDs. For instance, if an egg is just released from the ovary before menstruation starts then it has about 12 hours to fertilize with sperm so as long as there was recent intercourse at least 12 hours prior to a woman's first day of the period then it is definitely possible to get pregnant while on her period!

The best time for getting pregnant without birth control use is 4 days before your next period (the very next day before your yearly birthday). Birth control pills make it difficult for pregnancy so the chances are fairly low that you would become pregnant this

The chance of getting pregnant during your period is highly unlikely.  The probability that you’ll get pregnant during one menstrual cycle has been estimated to be approximately 1%. In order to conceive while menstruating, a sperm would need to make it past the fluids and reach the egg outside the uterus—that's a lot easier said than done. (e.g., about an inch away from impregnating a woman) Sperm does not actually live very long- typically less than 3 days at body temperature (we can't measure this precisely as sperm production is often unknown and fluid can make them last longer). It is possible to conceive a baby if it happens during ovulation, which typically occurs in the middle of your menstrual cycle.

In other words, there's reason to believe you can get pregnant while on your period as long as your periods are regular and you're ovulating at the time of conception. If we assume that an average woman has 280 days in her menstrual cycle, then any day from Day 91 through Day 365 would be the day when she could fall pregnant - assuming she had intercourse after the fertile window opened at around 4-6 pm on Day 11. As a rule of thumb, dating apps and sexual health websites recommend waiting until seven or more days after menstruation begins before having sex again.

There are a number of factors that play a role in this, chief among them timing. In general, most women ovulate about two weeks from the last menstrual period (LMP), or cycle day 13. A woman's menstrual cycle can be as short as 21 days or as long as 35 days, though long cycles are more uncommon than shorter ones. This means a woman could be pregnant if they have sex on around day 14-17 of their cycle after LMP if ovulation happens to fall on either those days or one day previous to any one of those days. If it is not even going to happen in the next 4-5 months but you would like to get pregnant and need some STD testing done.

Read Blog
Indian Gut Health Crisis: How to Improve Digestion Naturally

Indian Gut Health Crisis: How to Improve Digestion Naturally

In recent years, digestive issues have become increasingly common across India. From bloating and acidity to chronic constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), millions of Indians are silently suffering from poor gut health. With changing food habits, busy lifestyles, and stress, the Indian gut health crisis is real and growing.

But the good news? You can take simple, natural steps to improve your digestion and boost your gut health—without relying on heavy medications.

In this blog, we’ll explore the root causes of the Indian gut health crisis and offer natural ways to improve digestion—right from your kitchen.

 

What Is the Indian Gut Health Crisis?

The term “gut health crisis” refers to the sharp increase in digestive problems among people. In India, several factors are making gut issues worse:

  • High intake of spicy, oily, and processed foods

  • Lack of fiber in the daily diet

  • Stressful lifestyles and irregular sleep

  • Overuse of antibiotics and painkillers

  • Low physical activity

  • Contaminated water or poor hygiene
     

These factors disrupt the balance of “good bacteria” in the stomach—also called the gut microbiome. When these good bacteria are reduced, it leads to poor digestion, inflammation, and even reduced immunity.

 

Common Signs of Poor Gut Health

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms regularly, your gut health may need attention:

  • Frequent bloating or gas

  • Acid reflux or heartburn

  • Constipation or diarrhea

  • Food intolerances

  • Fatigue, even after proper rest

  • Skin problems like acne or eczema

  • Low immunity or frequent infections
     

The gut is called the “second brain” of the body for a reason. It affects everything—from digestion to mental health. That’s why improving your gut health naturally can help your overall well-being.

 

How to Improve Digestion Naturally – Indian Style

Improving digestion doesn’t have to mean expensive treatments. India is blessed with traditional remedies and ingredients that support gut health naturally. Let’s look at what you can do.

 

1. Eat More Fermented Foods

Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, or “good bacteria” that help digestion. Traditional Indian diets already include such foods:

  • Curd (Dahi) – Eat a bowl daily for healthy gut bacteria.

  • Buttermilk (Chaas) – A cooling drink that aids digestion after meals.

  • Pickles (Achar) – Homemade pickles (not store-bought) contain natural fermentation.

  • Idli/Dosa batter – Naturally fermented, easier to digest.
     

Including these in your daily diet can rebuild your gut microbiome over time.

 

2. Add Fiber-Rich Foods to Your Diet

Fiber acts as a broom for your digestive tract. It helps prevent constipation and feeds the good bacteria in your gut.

Include these high-fiber Indian foods:

  • Whole grains like brown rice, jowar, bajra, oats

  • Fruits like papaya, banana, apple, guava

  • Vegetables like carrots, beans, spinach, and beetroot

  • Legumes like chana, rajma, moong dal
     

Aim for at least 25–30 grams of fiber daily.

 

3. Drink Herbal Teas

Herbal teas made with Indian herbs can soothe your digestive system:

  • Ajwain (carom seeds) tea – Great for bloating and gas.

  • Saunf (fennel seed) water – Eases post-meal discomfort.

  • Ginger tea – Reduces inflammation and promotes digestion.

  • Jeera (cumin) water – Helps relieve acidity and improves metabolism.
     

These simple drinks can work wonders when consumed regularly.

 

4. Practice Mindful Eating

We often eat in a rush, in front of screens, or while working. This disturbs the natural digestion process.

Try these mindful habits:

  • Chew your food thoroughly.

  • Eat slowly and avoid distractions.

  • Don’t overeat—listen to your body's signals.

  • Avoid drinking too much water during meals (sip if needed).
     

 

5. Limit Junk Food and Processed Items

Street food, chips, soda, instant noodles—these may taste good but harm your gut. They contain preservatives, bad fats, and artificial flavors that damage gut lining.

Cut back on:

  • Deep-fried snacks

  • Sugary drinks

  • Refined flour (maida)

  • Packaged food and frozen meals
     

Instead, choose home-cooked, seasonal, and fresh meals.

 

6. Stay Hydrated

Water is essential for smooth digestion. It helps break down food and prevents constipation.

  • Drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily.

  • Start your day with warm water with lemon or honey.

  • Coconut water and lime water are also great options in summer.
     

 

7. Stay Active and Manage Stress

Your gut and brain are connected. High stress levels can directly affect your digestion.

  • Practice yoga—especially asanas like Pavanamuktasana and Vajrasana.

  • Walk at least 30 minutes a day.

  • Use deep breathing or meditation to reduce anxiety.

  • Sleep 7–8 hours a night to support digestion and healing.
     

 

8. Avoid Unnecessary Medicines

Overuse of antibiotics, painkillers, and antacids can disturb your gut bacteria.

Always consult a doctor before taking medications—especially long-term.

 

9. Add Prebiotics to Your Diet

Prebiotics are food for probiotics. These are found in:

  • Raw onions

  • Garlic

  • Bananas (especially slightly unripe ones)

  • Whole grains

  • Asparagus
     

Together, prebiotics and probiotics help restore gut balance.

 

Why Gut Health Matters More Than You Think

Good digestion is not just about avoiding gas or bloating. A healthy gut leads to:

  • Better absorption of nutrients

  • Stronger immune system

  • Improved skin and hair

  • Stable mood and energy levels

  • Long-term protection from lifestyle diseases
     

That’s why investing in your gut health naturally is one of the smartest things you can do for your future.

 

Conclusion: Indian Gut Health Crisis – How to Improve Digestion Naturally

The Indian gut health crisis is no longer a hidden issue. It's affecting millions due to poor diet, stress, and lifestyle changes. The good news? You don’t need fancy treatments to heal your gut. By following traditional Indian wisdom—eating right, staying active, managing stress—you can bring your digestive system back into balance.

If you’re facing frequent gut issues, don’t ignore them. Consult a certified doctor, get the right tests, and follow a natural path to healing.

Take your first step towards better gut health today. Book a consultation or wellness package now on SecondMedic and say goodbye to digestive troubles. Let’s beat the Indian Gut Health Crisis: How to Improve Digestion Naturally—together.

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