Some women believe pregnancy is impossible a few days before their next menstrual period. Although the chances may be lower at certain points in the cycle, pregnancy is still possible if ovulation occurs later than expected.
Understanding the menstrual cycle helps explain why.
1. Ovulation does not always happen on the same day: Many people assume ovulation always occurs on day
14. In reality, it varies between women and can change from one cycle to another.
2. Sperm can survive for several days: Sperm may remain capable of fertilisation for up to five days inside the female reproductive tract.
3. Periods can be irregular: Stress, illness, changes in weight, hormonal conditions and other factors can affect the timing of ovulation.
4. Calendar calculations can be inaccurate: A phone application may estimate fertile days, but it cannot always predict the exact day an egg will be released.
5. The egg has a short lifespan: After ovulation, an egg usually remains available for fertilisation for about 12 to 24 hours. If ovulation has already passed by several days, pregnancy from intercourse just before the expected period is less likely.
6. Bleeding is not always a normal period: Some bleeding can occur during pregnancy or because of other conditions. Bleeding alone cannot confirm that someone is not pregnant.
What should you do? If you had unprotected sex and do not want pregnancy, seek advice about emergency contraception promptly. If your period is late, take a pregnancy test.
Final thoughts: Pregnancy just before an expected period is generally less likely when ovulation has occurred normally, but it is not impossible. Cycle predictions are not a substitute for contraception. Use a reliable method if you want to avoid pregnancy.
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