In August, we tackled the question, “When Am I Most Likely to Get Pregnant?” This month, we’ll discuss when you’re least likely to get pregnant. Although there’s no risk-free time for pregnancy, there are times in your monthly cycle when you’re less likely to conceive.
Understanding your menstrual cycle can be confusing. At HopePlace, we want to provide clarity to protect your health and future.
If you wish to speak with a team member immediately, call us at (870) 217-0672. We are here to help you.
Understanding the Phases of Your Monthly Cycle
According to experts, there are four phases of your menstrual cycle. Let’s take a closer look at each:
- The menses [pronounced “men-seez”] phase
This phase begins on the first day of your period. At this point, fertility is typically low. Your body is shedding the uterine lining (bleeding) because no egg is present for fertilization. Most periods last three to five days, but can be as long as a week. - The follicular [pronounced “fol-lick-u-lar”] phase
The level of the hormone estrogen rises, which causes the lining of your uterus to grow and thicken. During days 10 to 14, an egg is formed. - The Ovulation [pronounced “ov-yoo-lay-shun”] phase
Around day 14 in a 28-day menstrual cycle, your ovary releases an egg. - The luteal [pronounced “loo-tee-uhl”] phase
The egg travels through your fallopian tubes to your uterus during this phase. If the egg becomes fertilized by sperm, it attaches to your uterine wall and you become pregnant. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, the lining of your uterus sheds, and you begin the phases over.
The days before and during menstruation (menses) are the least fertile menstrual cycle days.
Can You Track Ovulation?
It’s difficult to track because ovulation doesn’t always occur on the same day every month. However, there are a few standard methods to keep track of your monthly cycle:
- Basal body temperature: Get in the habit of taking your temperature each morning before getting out of bed. A slight rise from your base temperature can indicate ovulation.
- Ovulation predictor kits: These tests detect hormone changes before ovulation.
- Cervical mucus monitoring: Your cervical mucus changes throughout your menstrual cycle. Just before ovulation, it changes from thick, white, and dry to clear and slippery to make it easier for sperm to travel to meet an egg.
When Should I Take a Pregnancy Test?
Doctors recommend waiting to take a test until the first day after your missed period. At HopePlace, we offer no-cost, confidential pregnancy testing. We use professional-quality tests for the most accurate results.
Get Additional Help From HopePlace
As you can see, understanding the phases of your menstrual cycle can be challenging. We want to educate and support our clients in every way possible.
If you want to track your cycle more clearly, ask us for tips, or if you just need a safe place to talk about your current situation, we’re here for you.
Send us a message to schedule an appointment or call (870) 217-0672. You can also conveniently chat with us online.
At HopePlace, we provide the support and assistance you can trust. Contact us today.