If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy or simply wondering about your fertility, you may have questions about when pregnancy is most likely to occur. Understanding your body can help you make informed choices about your health and future.
At Crossroads Life Center, we provide confidential, no-cost services, including self-administered, lab-quality pregnancy tests, so that you can get answers in a safe and supportive environment. Our client advocates are here to walk alongside you, offering encouragement and practical resources.
Schedule an appointment today to get started.
How Fertility Works
You are most likely to get pregnant when sperm is present in the fallopian tubes at the same time that ovulation occurs. Ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary, typically happens once a month. The egg only survives for about 12–24 hours after being released.
Sperm, however, can live inside the reproductive tract for 3–5 days. This means the “fertile window” is several days long, usually beginning a few days before ovulation and lasting up to one day after. Intercourse during this window is when pregnancy is most likely to occur.
Recognizing Signs of Ovulation
Pinpointing ovulation isn’t always simple, especially if your cycle is irregular. However, some common signs and tools can help you better understand when ovulation might be happening:
- Physical changes: Some women notice clear, stretchy cervical mucus (similar to raw egg whites) around ovulation. A slight rise in body temperature can also occur.
- Cycle tracking: If your cycle is regular, ovulation typically happens around day 14 of a 28-day cycle. If your cycles are irregular, period tracking apps may help identify patterns.
- Ovulation predictor kits: These home kits detect hormonal shifts that occur right before ovulation.
Learning to recognize these changes can help you feel more confident in understanding your body.
Why This Knowledge Matters
Whether you are trying to avoid pregnancy or hope to become pregnant, understanding your fertile days is key. Predicting ovulation can be more challenging for those with irregular cycles, but tools and resources are available to provide clarity.
Take Your Next Step
You don’t have to figure this out alone. At Crossroads Life Center, we provide confidential and no-cost services for clients navigating questions about pregnancy and fertility. Whether you’re looking for a pregnancy test, encouragement from a mentor, or simply a safe space to process your thoughts, we’re here for you.
Schedule your no-cost appointment today and get the answers you need without delay.
FAQ:
Can I get pregnant during my period?
It’s less likely, but it is possible. If you ovulate earlier than expected and sperm survive for several days, pregnancy can occur.
What if my cycles are irregular?
Pregnancy can still happen, but it’s harder to predict ovulation. Tracking changes in your cycle or using ovulation kits can help.
When should I take a pregnancy test?
For the most accurate results, wait until at least 1–2 days after a missed period. Crossroads Life Center offers you self-administered, lab-quality pregnancy tests at no cost.