1. What is the Fertile Window?

The fertile window is the period during the menstrual cycle when a woman can conceive. It

includes the five days leading up to ovulation, the day of ovulation itself and sometimes the day

after ovulation. Ovulation occurs when the ovaries release a mature egg that can be fertilized by

sperm. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive system for up to five days, so having sex

during the fertile window ensures sperm is available when the egg is released.

The best days to conceive are typically the three days leading up to ovulation, as sperm can

wait in the fallopian tubes for the egg to arrive. Having sex on the day of ovulation or the days

just before gives the best chance for conception.

2. How to Track Ovulation

Tracking ovulation helps you pinpoint your fertile window. Here are a few methods to help:

● Ovulation Calendar: Most women ovulate between days 11 and 21 of their menstrual

cycle, counting from the first day of their period. If you have a regular cycle, this can help

you estimate when ovulation will happen.

● Basal Body Temperature (BBT): Your BBT rises slightly after ovulation. By taking your

temperature every morning before getting out of bed, you can identify when ovulation

has occurred. Tracking BBT over time helps you notice a pattern and identify the most

fertile days before the rise in temperature.

● Cervical Mucus Changes: Around ovulation, you may notice an increase in clear,

stretchy mucus that resembles egg whites. This is a sign that you’re in your most fertile

period.

● Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs): These kits test hormone levels in your urine to detect

the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) that happens just before ovulation. OPKs help you

identify the exact day you are most fertile.

3. Tips to Boost Fertility

In addition to timing, certain lifestyle changes can help improve fertility:

● Maintain a Healthy Weight: Both being underweight or overweight can interfere with

ovulation. Keeping a healthy weight can help regulate your cycle and improve your

chances of getting pregnant.

● Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking harms fertility, while excessive alcohol

can lower sperm quality and disrupt hormone levels. Both partners should avoid smoking

and limit alcohol intake when trying to conceive.

● Eat a Balanced Diet and Exercise Moderately: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and

minerals can support reproductive health. Likewise, moderate exercise can keep your

body in good shape without disrupting ovulation. Avoid excessive or intense exercise, as

it can reduce fertility.

● Use Sperm-Friendly Lubricants: Some lubricants can harm sperm. Look for

fertility-friendly options if you need lubrication during sex.

4. How Long Does It Take to Get Pregnant?

Within a year of trying, the majority of healthy couples become parents. Around 30% of couples

get pregnant within the first month and 80% within six months. Your chances of conceiving are

highest in your 20s, but fertility starts to decline in your 30s and by age 40, your chances drop to

about 5% per cycle.

5. When to Seek Help

It might be time to see a fertility expert if you have been trying to conceive for a year without

success (six months if you are over 35). Infertility can affect both men and women, so it’s

important to check both partners’ health and fertility.