You are most fertile during a specific window around ovulation in your menstrual cycle. Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovary and is available for fertilization. The fertile window typically includes the 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself, totaling about 6 days. For an average menstrual cycle (28 to 32 days):
- The fertile window generally falls between days 8 and 19 of the cycle.
- Ovulation usually occurs about 14 days before your next period.
- The most fertile days are the three days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation.
- Sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days, while the released egg can only be fertilized for about 12 to 24 hours after ovulation.
Because ovulation timing can vary between women and even from cycle to cycle, this fertile window can be unpredictable. Tracking your cycle and signs like changes in cervical mucus can help you identify your most fertile days more accurately. If you have a 28-day cycle, ovulation is likely around day 14, making days 10 to 15 your most fertile time. For longer or shorter cycles, ovulation shifts accordingly, usually about 14 days before your next period begins. To maximize chances of pregnancy, having sex regularly during this fertile window is recommended. In summary:
- Most fertile days: about 5 days before ovulation + day of ovulation.
- Ovulation occurs about 14 days before the next period.
- Fertility window varies but is typically between days 8 and 19 in a 26-32 day cycle.
This timing maximizes the chance that sperm meets egg for fertilization.
