A: Yes, it’s possible and it’s also very rare.
Usually, the start of menstruation indicates that a pregnancy has not occurred; therefore the blood-rich endometrium (lining of the uterus) is sloughed off through menstrual bleeding. If no pregnancy exists, the process of egg maturation and endometrial build-up begins again.
The several days leading up to ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) are the most fertile days of a woman’s cycle. Generally, ovulation occurs approximately 2 weeks before a woman has her period. The time of ovulation varies greatly from woman to woman and even from month to month in the same woman. It is remotely possible that a woman can release an egg during the time of menstrual bleeding. If sperm are present when an egg is released, a pregnancy can result.
Early signs of pregnancy include fatigue, breast tenderness, nausea and absence of the menstrual period at the expected time.
If you think you might be pregnant, get a home pregnancy test (you can buy them at grocery stores and pharmacies). Tests are also available at the Campus Health Pharmacy (520-621-6516). Home test results are available in 2 minutes and the test is 99% accurate. The Campus Health Service laboratory (520-621-6513) will also administer a pregnancy test; although, the cost is higher than a home test kit.
