Bhello doctor, it was the first day of my period and I had unprotected intercourse, what are my chances of getting pregnant?
Doctor Monica Calcagni responds
I’m there Doctor Monica Calcagni, Surgeon specializing in Gynecology and Obstetrics. For over twenty years I have accompanied women in every phase of their lives with competence, listening and passion. I graduated with honors fromUniversity of Rome “Tor Vergata”where I also obtained a specialization in Obstetrics and Gynecology with honors and a II level Master’s degree in Aesthetic Medicine, as well as various specialist certifications.
In my job I deal with everything related to gynecological health: from prevention to contraception, from pregnancy to birth assistance, up to obstetric and gynecological ultrasound. I’m a non-objecting doctor and I have always been committed to protection of women’s health and rights.
Alongside my clinical activity, I also carry out my educational activity, with scientific publications and three books aimed at the general public. I have written three books: My journey alongside women (Maggioli Editore, 2025), More woman, less break (Sperling&Kupfer, 2024) e Women’s things (Sperling&Kupfer, 2022).
For info and contacts call 3397247140-3737375627
Or for online consultations you can book directly on the platform Doctorium.
Doctor Monica Calcagni
Unprotected intercourse and pregnancy risk
I understand your concern well: when unprotected intercourse occurs, it is normal to feel anxious and wonder what the real chances of pregnancy are.
Let’s start from a key point: the first day of cycle corresponds to the start of menstruation. In this phase, the endometrium is flaking and the body is preparing for a new cycle. For most women, theovulation (i.e. the fertile moment) occurs around the 12th-14th day of a regular 28-day cycle. This means that, in theory, having full intercourse on the first day of your period carries a very low risk of pregnancy.
Because the risk is there
However, we cannot say that the risk is zero. Why? Because every body is different: some women have shorter cycles, others ovulate earlier than expected and sperm can survive up to 4-5 days inside the genital system. If ovulation came early, a minimal margin of possibility would remain. In practice, therefore, the chances of pregnancy in this circumstance they are very low but not zero.
Emergency contraception
If intercourse took place a few hours ago and you do not want to become pregnant, I advise you to contact a doctor or a clinic to evaluate the possibility of pregnancy. emergency contraception (morning-after or 5-day-after pill), which is more effective the earlier it is taken.
Why always use a condom
And one last important piece of advice: for future reports, always use a condom. Not only does it significantly reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancy, but it is also the only contraceptive method that protects you from sexually transmitted diseases. It’s a simple gesture, but one that really makes the difference in experiencing sexuality in a more serene and confident way.
The risk of pregnancy on the first day of your period is very low, but to be completely safe, consider emergency contraception with a professional. And in the future, always choose protection: the condom is your best ally.
If you want, you can learn more by following mine Course on the Conscious Cycle (on the site useilcervellosempre.com).