[Skip to Content]
Norton Children's

Norton Children's Hospital
(502) 629- KIDS
NortonChildrens.com



When's the Best Time to Have Sex and Avoid Pregnancy?

Based on my menstrual cycle, when's the best time to have sex so I have the lowest chance of pregnancy?

The time females are most likely to get pregnant is about halfway between periods, when happens. Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovaries.

But trying to time things to a "safe" time can lead to an accidental pregnancy. That's because it's very hard to predict exactly when the egg will be released. And you can be fertile for several days before and after you ovulate.

Couples having sex should use a more reliable birth control method to prevent pregnancy, like birth control pills or the patch. And always use condoms to help prevent STDs.

Medically reviewed by: Amy W. Anzilotti, MD
Date reviewed: October 2018