When Did I Conceive?
So, you’re pregnant. Now you might be asking yourself: When did I conceive? or even Who could the father be? These are normal questions, and while science can’t always pinpoint the exact moment of conception, there are patterns in your cycle that can help you get a close estimate.
Need answers now? You can text a nurse for free at (318) 202-2243.
What Date Did I Conceive?
Whether you’re a couple of weeks in or several months along, there’s some simple math that can give you an idea of when conception likely happened.
Most women ovulate—the time when your body can get pregnant—two to three days per cycle, usually about two weeks after your last period began. That short window is when conception is most likely to occur.
Conception Date Calculator
Counting from the first day of your last period can give you a rough estimate of your ovulation window, and therefore your conception date.
If math isn’t your thing, free online calculators can help. Or, you can text us at (318) 202-2243 and get personal guidance from a nurse.
Keep in mind this is only an estimate. Every woman’s cycle is unique—some ovulate earlier or later, and some have longer or shorter fertile windows.
It’s also possible to conceive from sex that happened days before ovulation, since sperm can live inside the body for up to five days.¹ ²
Conception Calculator
Conception Date from Ultrasound
Ultrasound is one of the most accurate ways to estimate conception. Because fetuses grow at a consistent rate, an ultrasound can measure development and give you a reliable time frame.
Beyond dating your pregnancy, ultrasound also checks the viability of the pregnancy—making sure it hasn’t miscarried and isn’t ectopic (developing outside the uterus).³
While you can schedule this with your OB-GYN, it may involve paperwork and insurance. Pregnancy centers often provide free ultrasounds without those extra steps.
Get Help Determining Your Conception Date
If you’re trying to figure out when you conceived or just want answers about your pregnancy, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
Text (318) 202-2243 to connect with a certified nurse who can answer your questions and walk with you as you explore your next steps.
Sources:
1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/ovulation-signs/faq-20058000
2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23439-ovulation
3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9704-ultrasound-in-pregnancy