Is There a Safer Time to Have Sex and Not Get Pregnant?

November 5, 2024

The answer is complicated, but understanding your menstrual cycle is key to knowing when you are least likely to become pregnant. While there’s no completely “safe” time to have unprotected sex, knowing how ovulation works can help you identify the times in your cycle when pregnancy is less likely.

This article will highlight these times. However, if you think you may be pregnant and are looking for answers, or if you want to talk to someone about your reproductive health, we’re here for you. Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment. 

How Ovulation Affects Fertility

Ovulation occurs when an egg is released from your ovary, typically in the middle of your menstrual cycle. For most women, ovulation occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, but this can vary depending on the length and regularity of your cycle. You’re most likely to conceive in the days leading up to and immediately following ovulation (your fertile window).

However, it’s important to note that sperm can live in the body for up to five days, and an egg can be fertilized for about 12-24 hours after it’s released. Therefore, the days when you’re most fertile are the five days before ovulation, the day of ovulation, and the day after.

When Am I Least Likely to Be Pregnant?

You are least likely to become pregnant during your menstrual period and in the days immediately before and after your period. Here’s why:

• During your period: While it’s less common, pregnancy during menstruation is still possible if you have a very short cycle and ovulate soon after your period ends. However, for most women, this is a low-fertility time.
• Right after your period: For women with a regular cycle, the days immediately following your period are considered low-fertility days. Ovulation hasn’t occurred yet, and there’s no egg to fertilize, making pregnancy less likely.
• Right before your period: The time between ovulation and your next period (the luteal phase) is when you’re least likely to get pregnant. The egg has disintegrated if it hasn’t been fertilized, and your body is preparing for menstruation.

Irregular Cycles and Caution

If your cycle is irregular, it’s harder to predict when you’re ovulating, which means pregnancy could still happen outside of the expected fertile window. 

If you think there’s a chance you’re pregnant and are looking for free pregnancy testing or an ultrasound—contact us today. We understand the fear and uncertainty you’re feeling right now and are here to help.