When are the chances of getting pregnant the highest?

18.08.2025 |

For a woman who dreams of having a baby, it is important to know when her body is ready for conception. Pregnancy does not occur on any day of the cycle — there is a narrow ‘fertility window’ when the egg matures and is ready for fertilisation. Determining this period is the key to successful conception.

The highest chances of getting pregnant are on the day of ovulation

Ovulation is the moment when a mature egg is released from the ovary. This is when the chances of getting pregnant are highest.

The fertile window is 5–6 days:

4–5 days before ovulation (sperm can live in the body for up to 5 days)
The day of ovulation
1 day after (the egg lives for 12–24 hours)

For a woman with a 28-day cycle, ovulation usually occurs on the 14th day, but each woman’s cycle is individual.

How to determine ovulation?

Calendar method — counting the days of the cycle
Ovulation tests — strips that react to increased LH in urine
Basal body temperature measurement — increases after ovulation
Vaginal discharge — becomes clear and stringy, like egg white
Ultrasound folliculometry — the most accurate method under the supervision of a doctor

Interesting facts about conception

A healthy couple has a 25-30% chance of getting pregnant each cycle if they hit the fertile window
Past infections, stress, weight, and smoking can affect the ability to conceive
In women over 35, fertility declines and the cycle becomes less predictable
An irregular cycle does not rule out ovulation, but makes it difficult to track

When should you see a doctor?

You have been unable to conceive after 12 months of regular sexual intercourse without contraception (or 6 months if you are over 35)
Your cycle is irregular, very short or very long
You suspect gynaecological or hormonal disorders
You have a history of miscarriages or stillbirths

Recommended tests:

Hormone tests — AMH

Consultation with a gynaecologist

Check-up for women — comprehensive assessment of reproductive health

Pregnancy management

Conclusion

The best chances of getting pregnant are on the day of ovulation and 1–2 days before it. Tracking your cycle, tests and a gynaecologist consultation are the first steps to achieving your desired pregnancy. If your attempts are unsuccessful, do not delay visiting your doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to get pregnant during menstruation?

It is possible, but very rare. In women with short cycles, ovulation can occur shortly after the end of menstruation.

How can you tell if ovulation has occurred?

An increase in basal temperature, lower abdominal pain, and characteristic discharge. But the most accurate way to tell is with an ultrasound.

Is it necessary to track ovulation?

Not necessarily, but it significantly increases the likelihood of getting pregnant in a shorter period of time.

Does the frequency of sexual intercourse have an effect?

Yes. The optimal frequency is 2-3 times a week or every day during the fertile window.

Doctor obstetrician-gynecologist-mammologist Yulia Kostenko

Yulia Anatoliivna is an obstetrician-gynecologist-mammologist, graduated from Kyiv Medical University with a degree in medical care, a specialist in ultrasound diagnostics, and a breastfeeding consultant, and she helps women in the most important matter. The doctor advises all women to undergo regular checkups, at least once a year. The specialist performs an ultrasound of the mammary glands right at the appointment.