The time it takes to get pregnant varies widely among couples, but here are the key points:
- You can only get pregnant during a limited fertile window each menstrual cycle, which lasts about six days: the five days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 in a 28-day cycle, but this varies by individual cycle length
- The egg released at ovulation survives for about 12 to 24 hours, and sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days. Therefore, having sex in the days leading up to and including ovulation gives the best chance of fertilization
- Once fertilization occurs, it can take up to 6 days for the sperm and egg to join, and then another 3-4 days for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterus. Pregnancy is officially established at implantation, which can be about 2-3 weeks after sex
- Statistically, about 30% of couples conceive within one month of trying, 60% within three months, 80% within six months, and 85% within one year of regular unprotected sex
In summary, while fertilization can happen within hours to a day after ovulation, it often takes weeks from the time of intercourse to confirm pregnancy, and most couples conceive within a year of trying. Timing sex during the fertile window maximizes the chance of getting pregnant.
