If you’re sexually active and trying to understand your chances of becoming pregnant, it’s helpful to know how your menstrual cycle works. While there’s no completely risk-free time for pregnancy, there are parts of your cycle when you’re less likely to conceive.
Her Hope Pregnancy Center is here to help you cut through the uncertainty. Schedule a free appointment to speak with our caring team.
In the meantime, keep reading to learn what you need to know to understand your fertility better.
Understanding Your Cycle
Did you know your menstrual cycle has four phases? Your fertility changes throughout each one! Here’s the breakdown:
- Menstrual phase (days 1–5): This is when your period begins. At this point, fertility is typically low because your body is shedding the uterine lining, and no egg is present for fertilization.
- Follicular phase (days 6–13): Your body prepares to release an egg. Fertility rises as you get closer to ovulation.
- Ovulation (around day 14): This is when the egg is released. It’s the most fertile time of your cycle. Sperm can live inside the body for several days, so pregnancy is possible even if sex happens a few days before ovulation.
- Luteal phase (days 15–28): After ovulation, if the egg hasn’t been fertilized, hormone levels drop, and your period starts again. Fertility is lower during this phase.
Least Likely Time to Conceive
You’re least likely to get pregnant during your period and the early days following it.
However, ovulation doesn’t always happen at the same time each month, and sperm can survive longer than you might think. This means it’s still possible (though less likely) for you to get pregnant during what’s considered a “low fertility” window.
Tracking Ovulation
If you want a clearer understanding of your cycle, tracking ovulation can help. Common methods include:
- Basal body temperature: Get in the habit of taking your temperature each morning before getting out of bed. A slight rise from your base temperature can indicate ovulation.
- Ovulation predictor kits: These tests detect hormone changes that happen right before ovulation.
- Cervical mucus monitoring: Cervical mucus is usually clear, stretchy, and similar in texture to egg whites.
When to Take a Pregnancy Test
If you think you might be pregnant, it’s best to wait until after you’ve missed your period before taking a pregnancy test. We know you may feel anxious to take a test right after intercourse, but testing too early can sometimes give a false-negative result if hCG levels haven’t risen to detectable levels.
If you test and get a negative result but still don’t get your period, try testing again in a few days.
You’re Not Alone
Whether you’re trying to understand your cycle, think you might be pregnant, or want to discuss your options, we’re here to help.
Her Hope offers free pregnancy confirmation services in a supportive, confidential environment.
Reach out today to schedule your free appointment.