What is ovulation? It is the process where a mature egg is released by the ovary and moves down through the fallopian tube into the uterus to be fertilized. The lining of the uterus at this stage is usually thickened in preparation of a fertilized egg which then grows into a fetus.
Chances of getting pregnant during ovulation are highest at this time. If pregnancy does not occur during this time, then the thickened uterus wall and unfertilized egg will be shed. This is what is known as the menstruation period.
What are the chances of getting pregnant during ovulation
You are most likely to get pregnant during your more fertile days of the month when you are ovulating. The duration and time of ovulation varies from one woman to another but is generally 10 to 16 days in length. The ovulation period provides the best chance for women trying to conceive. During this period, your body’s reproductive system is well prepared for fertilization and prepares for conception by thickening the uterine wall and increasing the level of progesterone hormones which play a huge role in healthy conception.
Normally, a woman can get pregnant any time after reaching puberty while some even get pregnant during the menstruation period though this is not very common. Generally, your most fertile period is usually between four to five days before ovulation.
Considering that a man’s sperm can live in the female’s body for four to five days and the egg released from the ovaries can live for about one or two days, the chances of getting pregnant during ovulation period is best. By keeping a detailed list of your most fertile days of the month and constant monitoring of your basal body temperature, timed intercourse could easily result into being able to get pregnant.
Tracking Your Ovulation
The chances of getting pregnant during ovulation only require you to have the right timing. The normal monthly cycle of most women is measured from the first day of menstruation until the first day of the next menstruation period.
This normal cycle is usually between 28 to 32 days though some have longer or shorter cycles. The best way to track your ovulation is by noting the day when your last menstrual period starts or simply calculating 12 to 16 days from your next expected period. Ovulation mostly occurs between day 11 or 12 from the first day of your last menstrual period. Having sexual intercourse during this ‘fertile time’ significantly increases the chances of pregnancy.
Tracking your ovulation helps you know when conception can and cannot occur. It is important to note that ovulation can occur at various times and on different days during the monthly cycle. Fertility awareness is the best way to track your ovulation and either by use of a basal thermometer or studying the various changes in your cervical mucus. Some factors like stress, illness and others may also adversely affect the menstrual cycle and the chances of getting pregnant during ovulation. With a little planning and forethought, it is relatively easy to get pregnant.
