Bodies Aren’t Calendars: Periods, Pregnancy, and Protection

In this episode, we unzip how the menstrual cycle actually works, what influences the likelihood of pregnancy, and why real bodies don’t operate on neat, predictable timelines. We explore how stress, medication, and everyday life can affect cycle timing, while clarifying common misconceptions about ovulation, fertilization, pre-ejaculate, and STI risk.We also talk about emergency contraception, breaking down what options exist, how and when they work best, and why effectiveness can vary from person to person. Along the way, we highlight the importance of access, accurate information, and autonomy when making time-sensitive reproductive health decisions. Our conversation addresses the very real issue of period poverty, highlighting it as a systemic issue connected to education, infrastructure, and dignity—and underscoring why comprehensive menstrual health education matters at every stage of life.This episode offers clarity where there’s often confusion, replacing silence and stigma with practical knowledge and compassion.If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here:  ⁠Show suggestionsIf you want to ask Dr Sue a sex question for the weekly Q&A you can submit it here: Ask a question