Ovulation

Hello Anonymous,

Welcome to EmpowHER. I am glad you reached out to us. I will do my best to explain ovulation.

I don't think you were at risk for becoming pregnant by having intercourse on day 8 of your menstrual cycle, as long as you count the first day of your period as day 1.

Ovulation is when a mature egg is released from the ovary, pushed down the fallopian tube, and is available to be fertilized. An egg lives 12 to 24 hours after leaving the ovary.

A woman’s monthly cycle is measured from the first day of her menstrual period until the first day of her next period. On average, a woman’s cycle normally is between 28-32 days.

Ovulation can be calculated by starting with the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP) or by calculating 12-16 days from the next expected period. Most women ovulate anywhere between Day 11 – Day 21 of their cycle, counting from the first day of the LMP.

This is what many refer to as the “fertile time” of a woman’s cycle, because sexual intercourse during this time increases the chance of pregnancy.

Ovulation can occur at various times during a cycle, and may occur on a different day each month. It is important to track your cycle and fortunately there are a number of free fertility charting tools available to help women identify their peak fertile days.

Hope this helps,
Maryann