If you’re hoping to get pregnant, the process can seem particularly overwhelming. With all the supplements you need to take and the dates you have to keep track of, trying to conceive often seems like a second job. To improve your chances of conception, it’s important that you pay attention to your fertility window. Keeping track of this timeline will help you to pinpoint when you reach peak fertility.
Track your menstrual cycle
The best way to identify your ovulation window is to track your cycle, Once your body begins to ovulate, one of your ovaries will release an egg into your fallopian tubes. This egg is now ready for the sperm to fertilize it.
As this egg has between 12 and 24 hours for the sperm to fertilize it, it’s best to have sex as soon as you ovulate. However, sperm can last several days in your fallopian tube, making it possible for you to be impregnated if you were intimate during the days leading up to ovulation.
The best time to conceive
Your peak fertility period indicates the 3 – 5 days window during ovulation were your chances of conceiving are the highest. During this time, many women wonder how to determine the best time of day to get intimate.
According to certain studies, couples that are intimate during the early morning will increase their chances of conceiving. Research indicates that semen quality during this time of day is higher than any other time. This statistic is particularly true March through May. Other research supports this early morning theory by showing that men’s testosterone levels significantly increased from 6 a.m. – 9 a.m., with the libido hitting its peak around 10 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Another study from the University of Modena indicates that sperm quantity and motility tend to be highest towards the late afternoon. This statistic should be taken into consideration with the fact that many women begin to ovulate close to midnight. This makes the late afternoon – midnight an ideal window for conception. With so many windows to choose from, couples can try multiple times a day to get pregnant.
Choosing your fertility window
When trying to get pregnant, it can be particularly difficult to stay on top of your window for ovulation. Similarly, women with irregular periods may find it difficult to stick to a tight schedule. Experts recommend that women with inconsistent periods try getting intimate at various times during the day throughout the week, increasing their chances of conceiving.
As you consider what ovulation window fits your schedule and cycle, keep in mind that your health also affects your ability to get pregnant. Women hoping to get pregnant should focus on eating healthier food items, quit drinking, and stop smoking to make sure their bodies are healthy enough for the semen to attach to their eggs.
The path to pregnancy often involves a bit of luck, the right supplements, and a trusty calendar. With some calculating on your part and well-timed intercourse, you’ll be able to determine the best time for you to get pregnant during your fertility window.