Pregnancy occurs when a sperm fertilizes an egg inside a woman's body. Here's how the process works and how you can increase your chances of getting pregnant:

How Pregnancy Happens

• Every month, a mature egg is released from the ovary in a process called ovulation. The egg travels through the fallopian tube and remains viable for fertilization for about 12 to 24 hours

• During sexual intercourse, sperm is ejaculated into the vagina. Sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to 5-6 days, waiting for an egg to be released

• If sperm meets the egg in the fallopian tube during ovulation, fertilization can occur. The fertilized egg (zygote) then travels to the uterus and implants in the uterine lining, which marks the beginning of pregnancy

• Implantation usually happens about a week after fertilization. If implantation does not occur, the fertilized egg is shed during the next menstrual period

Increasing Chances of Getting Pregnant

• Have regular, unprotected sex every 2 to 3 days, especially around the time of ovulation, which is typically 12 to 16 days before your next period starts

• Track ovulation using methods such as menstrual calendars, ovulation predictor kits, or observing ovulation symptoms to time intercourse effectively

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: avoid smoking, limit or stop alcohol consumption, and maintain a healthy weight

• Take folic acid daily before conception to support healthy fetal development

Additional Notes

• Most healthy couples conceive within one year of regular unprotected sex

• If you are over 35 or have been trying for six months without success, consider consulting a healthcare provider for fertility evaluation

• Fertility issues can affect both partners, and treatments are available

In summary, pregnancy results from sperm fertilizing an egg during ovulation, and timing intercourse around ovulation while maintaining good health increases the likelihood of conception