Understanding your Menstrual Cycle is key to improving the chances of success. If you are having sexual intercourse at a time in the month where there is no egg available to fertilise then then Fertilisation which means the Sperm penetrating and Fertilising the Egg cannot happen.
The Menstrual Cycle is a natural monthly process that occurs in the Reproductive system of most people with female anatomy. It involves a complex interplay of hormones including several distinct phases.
The length of the menstrual cycle can vary from person to person but typically falls between 21 and 35 days, with the average cycle lasting around 28 days. It’s important to note that irregularities in the menstrual cycle can be caused by various factors such as stress, illness, hormonal imbalances, or underlying health conditions. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for guidance and evaluation. They can also help to regulate your periods which then helps to make it easier tracking when the best window is to have sexual intercourse to improve chances of success.
Below is an Overview of what happens during a typical Menstrual Cycle
Menstruation (Day 1-5)
The menstrual cycle begins with menstruation, usually referred to as a period. During this time the lining of the uterus called endometrium sheds and leads to bleeding that lasts typically 3 to 7 days. If fertilisation of the egg has occurred this menstruation will not take place.
Follicular Phase (Day 1-13) - Follicles & Egg Prepare
Alongside with menstruation, the body starts preparing for the next ovulation. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is released by the Brains Pituitary Gland and this hormone stimulates the ovaries to produce multiple tiny sacs called follicles. In each follicle is an immature egg called an oocyte. Not in all cases but usually only one egg in its follicle will mature into an Ovum which is a mature egg.
Ovulation (around Day 14) - Egg Release
Around the middle of the menstrual cycle rises in the hormone Estrogen creates a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) and its this LH surge that causes the mature egg (ovum) to release into the fallopian tube. This is classified the fertile window and is the time that conception is most likely as with sexual activity there is the chance of the sperm meeting the Mature egg and fertilise the Egg.
Luteal Phase (Day 15-28)
After ovulation (egg release from the follicle), the empty follicle transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone. Progesterone helps prepare the uterine lining for potential pregnancy by making it thicker and more conducive for embryo implantation if Fertilisation of egg by the sperm was successful.
If no fertilisation occurred then the Corpus Luteum begins to break down and Progesterone levels drop initiating the start of the next Menstrual cycle and Menstruation (period).
