TTC & cycle language · In plain English

Fertile window

The days in a cycle when sex can result in pregnancy: generally the five days before ovulation and the day of ovulation.

Also searched as: fertile days, fertility window

Why you might see this term

Sperm may remain able to fertilise an egg for several days. This is why intercourse before egg release can be relevant.

What to keep in mind

Ovulation timing varies even in regular cycles. A calendar estimate cannot prove which days are fertile and must not be used as contraception.

Sources & further reading

Prepared by ProFertility · Updated 23 October 2026.

Educational information based on the linked sources. This explanation is not an individual diagnosis or a treatment recommendation. A term appearing here does not mean the test is necessary or included in a particular kit.

Suggest a correction or ask a question →

Looking up another word?

You can search by abbreviation, full name or everyday language.

Back to the fertility A–Z →