TeenHealthFX - Answers - On Pill - Can I Have Sex During My Period?

Birth Control Methods: Birth Control Pills / Question
Published: October 8, 2003

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I'm on the Pill. Can my boyfriend and I still have sex during my period, or is there an increased risk of getting pregnant? We always use a condom. I can't find the answer anywhere, and would really appreciate a reply! Thanks!

Signed: On Pill - Can I Have Sex During My Period?

Dear On Pill - Can I Have Sex During My Period?,

If you are on the pill, and taking it every day as prescribed without fail, your risk of pregnancy at any time of the month is extremely small (less than 1%). In addition, you are using condoms which is added protection against pregnancy (lowers your risk even more) and STDs. You and your boyfriend can certainly have sex while you have your period. There is not an increased risk of getting pregnant while you have your period - in fact, while it is possible to get pregnant at any time of the month, during your period it is less likely. Having sex during your period, however, does increase the risk of getting an STD, especially HIV (so definitely keep using condoms each and every time).

Here is a quick rundown of the menstrual cycle:

The day you start to bleed is Day 1 of your cycle. You ovulate - meaning an egg pops out of your ovary and starts its way down your fallopian tube - in the middle of your cycle, usually about 12 - 14 days after your period begins. While that egg is traveling down the fallopian tube, it is available to be fertilized, which can lead to pregnancy. When you start bleeding, it means you are not pregnant and the lining that has built up in your uterus is leaving your body.

It is important to bear in mind that while you are young and your cycle is still irregular, you run the risk of getting pregnant any time of the month - your body is not a machine, and you cannot always tell what is going on with it just by the signs you can see, like blood. However, being on the pill and using condoms means you are protecting yourself against pregnancy as best you can.

We are very glad to hear that you are continuing to use condoms. It is important to remember that the pill only protects against pregnancy, not against any sexually transmitted diseases. In addition, it is always good to have a backup method. Check out this link to safer sex for more information.

Signed: TeenHealthFX