Can I get pregnant any time in my cycle? That’s a question that thousands of women Google each year. Because let’s be real, sex happens anytime in a cycle, so it’s a legitimate question to ask. Not only can sex happen, but sperm lifetime matters, too. Really, it’s a complicated question, but fortunately for you, we’ve got the answers you want right here.
Keep reading to find out more about your cycle, pregnancy, and sperm lifespan.
Phases of a menstrual Cycle
It’s important to know about the female body, especially during your fertile years. The female body goes through 4 phases each month that make up a complete menstrual cycle. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the phases are:
- Menses phase: This is your period. On average, this lasts 3-5 days, but can be longer or shorter depending on your individual body.
- Follicular phase: This starts the day you start your period (it overlaps the menses phase) and ends the day of ovulation. This is when your endometrium thickens and the follicles in your ovaries grow.
- Ovulation: This is when your egg is released and your opportunity to get pregnant is greatest.
- Luteal phase: This is roughly days 15-28. During this phase, the egg that was released during ovulation moves through the fallopian tubes and towards the uterus. If the egg isn’t fertilized by a sperm during this phase, it will be released by the body with the endometrium
Can I get pregnant any time in my cycle?
The short answer is, yes, you can get pregnant anytime in your cycle. However, the likelihood of getting pregnant varies in each phase. Research shows that your best chance to get pregnant is the day of ovulation and the 5 days leading up to it. During your period is the time you’re least likely to get pregnant.
Sperm Lifespan
When considering if you might be pregnant, it’s important to note that sperm can live longer than just one day. According to Mayo Clinic, sperm can live for 3 to 5 days after ejaculation. That means, that even if you have sex, the egg can still technically be fertilized later that week (and 5 days closer towards ovulation, for example).
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If you had sex since your last period and think you might be accidentally pregnant, contact us. Our registered nurses are experts in personalized, confidential accidental pregnancy care. They will get you the answers you need to empower you to make the educated decision you want to make about the outcome of your pregnancy.