Women can get pregnant during their reproductive years, which generally span from puberty (around age 12) to menopause (usually around age 51). Fertility is highest during the "fertile window," which typically occurs in the days leading up to and including ovulation—the release of an egg from the ovary. Ovulation usually happens about 14 days before the next menstrual period. For women with an average menstrual cycle of 28 to 32 days, the most fertile days fall roughly between days 8 and 19 of their cycle. The best chance of pregnancy is during the three days leading up to and the day of ovulation, because sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, while the egg remains viable for about 12 to 24 hours after release. Women can technically become pregnant at any time during their menstrual cycle, but the likelihood is highest around ovulation. Regular unprotected intercourse every 2 to 3 days throughout the cycle provides the best chance of pregnancy. In terms of age, fertility is generally best in the late 20s to early 30s, with a decline starting after age 30 and a more rapid decrease after age 35. The ideal age for pregnancy is often considered to be around 30.5 years. In summary:
- Pregnancy is possible from puberty to menopause.
- Most fertile days are the five days before and the day of ovulation (mid-cycle).
- Ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before the next period in a 28-day cycle.
- Sperm can survive up to 5 days; egg survives 12-24 hours post-ovulation.
- Best fertility age: late 20s to early 30s with decline thereafter.
This information provides a general overview; individual cycles and fertility can vary.
