Trying to conceive a baby can be quite frustrating. Conception will only happen if the timing of intercourse in relation to ovulation is correct. Even then there are still many factors that will be determined primarily by chance. If the sperm are able to survive the trip to the egg after intercourse, the chance that you will miss your next menstrual period and have a positive pregnancy test is only about 30 percent. This means that timing your intercourse in conjunction with ovulation is a critical step towards conception.

The first thing you need to know in determining the best days to conceive is how long your cycle is, because ovulation will typically occur 14 days prior to the next period starting. This means that if you have a 30-day cycle, ovulation will typically occur at about day 16. If you have a 28-day cycle, ovulation will typically occur around day 14. If your cycle length is not consistent you may want to try an ovulation detection kit. These can be found at most drugstores.

One other item to consider is the fact that sperm have the ability to survive in a woman’s body for a few days waiting for the egg to show up. The egg, however, will only survive for about 24 hours after ovulation. For this reason, having intercourse in the days prior to ovulation will typically provide you with the best opportunity for conception. Among the reasons why this is the most fertile time is an increase in cervical fluid and the mucus consistency changes to a more opaque, slippery and stretchy substance. You would be able to stretch the mucus up to 2-4 inches between your fingers. This change is necessary to provide a healthy environment for the sperm that helps them survive for several days.

The three days prior and the day of ovulation are often the best times for intercourse for successful conception. The male partner should abstain from intercourse and masturbation for 3-4 days prior to the first intercourse to allow his body to produce sufficient motile sperm.

Calculating the best days to conceive is one of the best ways to improve your chances for conception. Know your menstrual cycle, buy an ovulation kit and keep track of important dates. Ensure the male partner is aware of his role and that he prepares himself accordingly. Intercourse timed properly with ovulation is one of the big factors toward successful conception.

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