Understanding the Fertility Cycle: What You Need to Know About Your Body

Understanding how your fertility cycle works is a fundamental part of trying to conceive. By learning about the different phases, you can increase your chances of getting pregnant by having sex at the most fertile time. This guide covers all you need to know—from your period to ovulation and the luteal phase.

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Understanding the Fertility Cycle: What You Need to Know About Your BodyPhoto: Preggers

What is the fertility cycle?

Each month, your body goes through hormonal changes that prepare it for pregnancy. The cycle starts on the first day of your period and ends the day before your next one begins. Hormones like FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone), estrogen, and progesterone play a major role in controlling ovulation and preparing the uterus for a fertilized egg.

The 4 phases of the fertility cycle:

  1. Menstruation (days 1–5): The uterine lining is shed, and bleeding occurs. Hormone levels are low.
  2. Follicular phase (days 6–14): Your ovaries develop follicles, and one becomes dominant. The uterine lining thickens.
  3. Ovulation (around day 14): A mature egg is released. This is your most fertile window.
  4. Luteal phase (days 15–28): Progesterone levels rise. If the egg isn’t fertilized, hormone levels drop and a new cycle begins.

How to track your cycle

Track your period using a calendar or fertility app. You can also take your basal body temperature daily—after ovulation, it rises slightly.

Tips to improve your chances of getting pregnant:

  • Have sex during your ovulation window
  • Use ovulation predictor kits
  • Keep in mind sperm can live up to 5 days inside the uterus
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