Getting pregnant after ovulation
How ovulation works
The key to conceiving (or
preventing pregnancy) is understanding your ovulation cycle. Ovulation occurs
when a mature egg is released from one of the ovaries, which usually occurs
around day 14 of a 28-day cycle. However, day 14 is just an average. In fact, a
woman with a 28-day cycle can ovulate any day between cycle days 11 and 21 (the
first day of her period is cycle day 1). We call these 10 days your
"fertile window".
As a woman, it is important
that you track your cycle; otherwise, it's nearly impossible to know when
you're likely to ovulate. A typical cycle is measured from the first day of
your period to the first day of your next period, averaging 28-32 days. If
you're like me, it's not always set in stone. All different.
Ovulation is a subtle hormonal
process in the female reproductive system, regulated by five major hormones.
Each hormone triggers each other, coordinating the development and release of
an egg from the ovaries.
This is a simple yet complex
process that creates a monthly cycle.
Three hormones are produced in
the brain: gonadotropin-releasing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and
luteinizing hormone. While the other two hormones, estrogen and progesterone,
are produced in the ovaries.
Pregnancy after ovulation
It is possible to get pregnant
after ovulation, but only 12-24 hours after the release of the egg. Cervical
mucus helps sperm live up to 5 days in a woman's body, and it takes about 6
hours for active sperm to reach the fallopian tubes. If the sperm is there when
or shortly after the egg is released, you can get pregnant quickly the day
after ovulation.
What affects ovulation?
Our bodies are programmed to work
like self-healing machines. However, each person has a different genetic makeup
and is exposed to different environmental factors. Genetics and environmental
factors can influence reproductive hormone levels, which can affect your
chances of conceiving. If you think you are experiencing infertility, remember
that you have options and you are not alone.
Some environmental factors
that affect ovulation are:
Stress can play a big role in
ovulation disorders. Practice anti-stress exercises such as deep breathing,
light exercise, stretching, yoga, meditation, and positive affirmations.
Another important factor is a
healthy and balanced diet. If your dietary needs are not met, your hormones and
ovulation can be affected.
Chemicals in the environment
have a significant impact on how our bodies function. According to a study
published in 2003, “Industrial compounds can reduce a couple's ability to have
children by 29%.
Do you need help?
Every pregnancy is a blessing
of new life. Whether you're trying to conceive or trying to avoid pregnancy,
learning more about ovulation and your cycle can be extremely helpful.
Whatever situation you find yourself in, you are not alone. Everyone has their own story, but many of us have similar circumstances. Together we can help each other gain understanding and strength!