What happens if you finish inside while she's on her period?
Sex During a Period: What You Need to Know
It's a common question with an important answer: What happens if you have sex and finish inside while she is on her period? The short answer is that two things are possible: pregnancy and the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The idea that having sex during a period is a "safe" time is a widespread myth, and relying on it for contraception can lead to an unplanned pregnancy.
The Risk of Pregnancy: It's Not Zero
While the chance of getting pregnant is generally lower during a period than at other times in the cycle, it is absolutely still possible. Here’s why:
Sperm Lifespan: Sperm can survive inside the female body for up to five days. This means if you have sex at the end of a period, sperm can still be alive and ready to fertilize an egg that is released just a few days later when ovulation occurs.
Irregular Cycles: Not all menstrual cycles are the same. Someone with a very short or irregular cycle might ovulate very early, potentially even right after their period ends or even during it. If this happens, a viable sperm could be waiting in the fallopian tubes to fertilize the newly released egg.
Because you can never be certain of the exact day of ovulation, relying on the menstrual cycle as a form of birth control is risky.
The Risk of STIs: It's Higher
In addition to pregnancy, having unprotected sex during a period can increase the risk of transmitting or contracting an STI.
Blood-borne Infections: The presence of blood can increase the risk of transmitting blood-borne infections, such as HIV and Hepatitis C.
Cervical Opening: The cervix is more open during menstruation, which makes it easier for bacteria and viruses to travel into the uterus, increasing the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or other infections.
For these reasons, using a condom during every sexual encounter, regardless of the time of the month, is the best way to prevent the spread of STIs.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to sex during a period, remember two key points:
Pregnancy is possible. Never assume you are safe from pregnancy just because of the timing of the menstrual cycle.
The risk of STIs is increased. Protection is even more important to safeguard your health and your partner's.
For both contraception and STI prevention, condoms are your most reliable and safest choice. Open communication with your partner about sexual health and using a consistent form of birth control are the most empowering steps you can take to protect yourself and your partner.