How Many Days After Your Period Can You Get Pregnant?

1. Understanding Ovulation

• Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovary

• Occurs about 12–16 days before your next period in an average 28-day cycle

• Fertile window: About 5 days before ovulation + ovulation day

• Sperm can survive up to 5 days inside the female reproductive tract

2. Timing Relative to Your Period

• Short cycles (21–25 days):

  • Ovulation may occur soon after your period ends

  • You could be fertile 3–7 days after your period

• Average cycles (28 days):

  • Ovulation usually occurs around day 14

  • Fertile window is roughly days 9–14

• Long cycles (30+ days):

  • Ovulation occurs later, so fertility may start 10–16 days after your period

3. Why You Can Get Pregnant Shortly After Your Period

• Early ovulation: Some women ovulate shortly after their period ends

• Sperm survival: If you have sex near the end of your period, sperm can survive long enough to fertilize an egg when ovulation occurs

4. Summary Table for a 28-Day Cycle

Key Takeaways

• You can get pregnant a few days after your period if you ovulate early or have a short cycle

• The highest risk is during ovulation and the 5 days leading up to it

• Using contraception is necessary if you want to avoid pregnancy