Can I Get Pregnant? Fertility and Timing for Conception

Is it possible to be pregnant?

Hello, many of my friends have had difficulty getting pregnant with their second child, so my husband and I want to try for a second one.
My last menstrual period started on March 19 and ended on March 23.
We had intercourse on March 31.
Is it possible for me to get pregnant? My menstrual cycle is very regular; it has never been late, and it usually comes 2 to 3 days early.
Can you tell me when in April would be the best time to try for conception? I’ve heard that having intercourse 3 to 4 days before ovulation increases the chances of having a boy because the sperm swim faster.
Is that true?

Xi Xi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/06

Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If your menstrual cycle is 28 days, ovulation typically occurs around days 13 to 15.
With March 19 as the first day of your period, March 31 would be approximately day 13, which presents a very high chance of conception.

Reply Date: 2005/04/06

More Info

To determine whether you can get pregnant and understand the factors influencing fertility, it's essential to consider several aspects of your menstrual cycle, ovulation timing, and overall reproductive health.

Firstly, based on the information you provided, your menstrual cycle appears to be regular, which is a positive sign for fertility. A typical menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but cycles can vary from 21 to 35 days. You mentioned that your last period started on March 19 and ended on March 23, which indicates that your cycle is likely around 28 days. Ovulation usually occurs about 14 days before your next period starts. Therefore, if your cycle remains consistent, you would likely ovulate around April 2 to April 5.

Having intercourse on March 31, which is just a few days before your estimated ovulation window, increases your chances of conception. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so engaging in sexual intercourse during this time can lead to successful fertilization if ovulation occurs shortly after. The timing of intercourse is crucial; ideally, it should happen in the days leading up to and including ovulation.

Regarding the notion that having intercourse a few days before ovulation can increase the chances of having a boy, this is based on the "Shettles Method," which suggests that male sperm (Y chromosome) swim faster but have a shorter lifespan than female sperm (X chromosome). However, scientific evidence supporting this theory is limited, and many factors influence the sex of the baby, including genetics and chance.

As for when to take a pregnancy test, it is generally recommended to wait until after your expected period. If your cycle is regular and you expect your next period around April 16, you could take a test a few days after that date for the most accurate result. Testing too early may lead to a false negative, as the hormone hCG, which indicates pregnancy, may not be detectable yet.

It's also important to consider your emotional state during this time. Stress and anxiety about conceiving can impact your overall health and potentially affect your fertility. It's beneficial to maintain a positive mindset and engage in activities that help you relax.

If you find that you are not successful in conceiving after several months of trying, it may be worthwhile to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform tests to evaluate both partners' reproductive health and provide guidance on any necessary interventions.

In summary, your chances of getting pregnant this cycle are promising, given your regular menstrual cycle and the timing of intercourse. Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and being patient as you navigate this journey. If you have further concerns or questions about fertility, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.

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