When during the menstrual cycle can (or can't) I get pregnant?
You're most fertile at about the midpoint of your menstrual cycle. The midpoint of the cycle is when an egg is released from one of your ovaries into one of your fallopian tubes, through which it travels toward your uterus. Right around this time, from just before the release of the egg to when it arrives in your uterus, is when you're most likely to get pregnant. In a regular 28-day cycle, that would be about two weeks before your period starts. Of course, since most menstrual cycles aren't perfectly regular, it's somewhat difficult to predict this timing in real life, so it's essential to always be very careful.
You're least likely to get pregnant during menstruation, when the egg is being flushed from the body. However, it's important to remember that you can get pregnant anytime -- even during your period.
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What happens to my period during pregnancy?
During pregnancy the uterus gets totally focused on protecting and nourishing the growing foetus. This means it can't receive eggs as usual and, figuratively speaking, it sends out a busy signal to your ovaries. Your body, then, temporarily halts ovulation and also stops shedding the lining of the uterus. As a result, you don't have your period. After the baby is born, your body's natural cycle of ovulation returns along with your period.
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How soon after childbirth will my period return?
As soon as your body has readjusted to not having a baby inside it, ovulation will kick right back in and your menstrual cycle will return. For some women, this happens only weeks after giving birth; for others, it takes months. Rest assured that even though pregnancy is a very complicated process, most women's bodies recover quickly and without a problem.
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If you have more questions or want more information regarding this subject, please consult your doctor.
Please note that the contents of this section are for informational purposes only, and are not intended as medical advice or as a substitute to your doctor's advice. For medical care and advice, you should consult your doctor on a regular basis. If you have any problem which concerns you, consult your doctor immediately.