Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle has four phases, with day 1 being the first day of your period.
Cycle Phases
- Menstruation (Days 1-5): Period bleeding
- Follicular (Days 1-13): Egg develops in ovary
- Ovulation (Day 14): Egg released
- Luteal (Days 15-28): Uterus prepares for possible pregnancy
Fertile Window
You're most likely to conceive during the 6 days ending on ovulation day:
- Sperm can survive up to 5 days
- The egg lives 12-24 hours after ovulation
- Peak fertility: 1-2 days before ovulation
When to Consult a Doctor
- Cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
- Very heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Severe pain during periods
- Missed periods (not pregnant)
- Irregular cycles after being regular