A girl can get pregnant only during her fertile window, which is the period around ovulation.
Understanding Ovulation and the Fertile Window
Ovulation is the process where a mature egg is released from an ovary. This typically occurs 10 to 16 days before the next menstrual period in women with regular cycles. However, this timeframe can vary depending on individual cycle length. The fertile window isn't limited to just the day of ovulation. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, and the egg can also remain viable for up to 24 hours after release. Therefore, the fertile window typically spans around 6 days each month, including the day of ovulation itself. [Source: NHS, WebMD]
Factors Affecting the Fertile Window:
- Irregular Periods: Women with irregular menstrual cycles have a more unpredictable fertile window, making it harder to pinpoint the exact time of ovulation. This makes natural family planning methods more challenging. [Source: Your Fertility]
- Cycle Length: A 28-day cycle is considered typical, but many women have cycles that are shorter or longer. The timing of ovulation relative to menstruation will vary accordingly. [Source: NHS]
Getting Pregnant During Menstruation?
While the probability is low, it's possible to get pregnant during menstruation. This is because ovulation can occur earlier or later than expected, and sperm can survive for several days within the reproductive tract. [Source: KidsHealth]
When to Seek Help
If a couple has been trying to conceive for a year (or six months for women over 35) without success, they should seek medical advice. There could be underlying fertility issues preventing pregnancy. [Source: Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine]
