Let’s start with a bit of magic called ovulation. This is that important time in your monthly cycle when your body is most ready for pregnancy. But do you know what exactly happens then? Let’s find out.
Pregnancy and ovulation
Ovulation is the moment when the mature egg is released from the ovary and awaits the sperm to fertilize it. This happens once a month and is actually the best time if you are trying to get pregnant. It is important to know that fertilization can only happen within 12 to 24 hours after you start ovulating.
Don’t wonder how to know you’re ovulating
Here are some signs you can follow:
- Increased body temperature in the morning
Basal body temperature (BHT) is measured immediately after waking up, before getting out of bed. It rises slightly after ovulation due to the increased level of progesterone. To keep track of this sign, keep a diary or use an app where you can record daily.
- Transparent and sticky cervical mucus
During ovulation, cervical mucus becomes more transparent, sticky and elastic – resembling the white of a raw egg. This facilitates the passage of sperm to the egg. Monitor these changes by checking your cervical mucus daily.
- Mild pain in the lower abdomen
Some women feel mild pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen around the time of ovulation. This pain, known as “miteschmerz,” can last from a few minutes to several hours and is a clear signal that the egg is being released.
- Increased sexual desire
Many women note that they experience stronger sexual desire during ovulation. This is a natural way for the body to increase the chances of conception.
How many of these symptoms have you monitored so far? One, two?
We recommend downloading an app to take notes for your convenience. Keeping track of these symptoms will help you know when is the best time to get pregnant. Every cycle is different, so it’s important to be careful.
Myth: Ovulation always occurs on the 14th day of the cycle
Fact: This is one of the biggest myths. Ovulation can occur anytime between the 10th and 21st day of your cycle, depending on the length of your cycle. It is important to watch your body’s signs, such as elevated basal temperature, clear cervical mucus, and mild lower abdominal pain.
The role of age
Age plays a key role when it comes to getting pregnant. The older you get, the more your eggs decrease in quantity and quality.
How does age affect your chances?
- Under 30 – here you are in the golden zone! Your chances are highest.
- From 30 to 35 years – you still have good chances, but they begin to decline.
- From 35 to 40 years – your fertility decreases significantly, as does the quality of your eggs.
- After 40 – getting pregnant becomes more difficult and the risks increase.
Myth: Women can get pregnant equally easily at any age
Fact: Fertility declines with age. The highest chances of getting pregnant are by age 30. After that, the chances gradually decrease, and after age 35 they begin to drop significantly. It’s important to be informed and plan your family’s future taking these factors into account.
Getting pregnant after menopause
Menopause is the time when your menstrual cycle stops and you enter a new phase of life. But is it possible to get pregnant afterwards?
Myth: It is impossible to get pregnant after menopause
Fact: Getting pregnant naturally after menopause is really impossible because ovulation stops. But with the help of egg donation and in vitro fertilization, the miracle can still happen.
However, be aware of some risks when becoming pregnant at menopause:
- Increased risk of health problems such as hypertension and diabetes;
- Complications of childbirth;
- Higher risk of genetic abnormalities.
Even if medicine works miracles, it is important to consult a doctor and be informed about the possible risks.
Getting pregnant during menstruation
Many people think that it is impossible to get pregnant during menstruation. However, this is not entirely true.
Myth: You can’t get pregnant if you have sex during menstruation
Fact: Although the chances are lower, it is still possible. Late ovulation and sperm longevity, which can survive up to 5 days, can lead to fertilization if you ovulate soon after menstruation.
What does this mean for you?
Don’t be surprised! Always use reliable methods of contraception, regardless of the time of the month.
Effectiveness of contraceptive methods
The choice of contraceptive method is important for every woman.
Myth: All contraceptive methods are equally effective
Fact: Different contraceptive methods offer different levels of effectiveness:
- Hormonal methods: pills, patches, injections and intrauterine devices (IUDs). They are effective and easy to use.
- Barrier methods: condoms, diaphragms and cervical caps. They protect mechanically from fertilization.
- Natural methods: calendar method, measurement of basal temperature and observation of cervical mucus. They require attention and discipline.
- Permanent methods: sterilization is a surgical procedure that is irreversible and provides permanent contraception.
The topic of getting pregnant and contraception can be confusing, but with the right information you can make the best decisions for your health and future. Be informed and confident in your choices!
