Pregnancy & Women's Health Guide: Due Dates, Ovulation & Cycle Tracking

Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary, typically 14 days before the next menstrual period begins. The fertile window spans 6 days: 5 days before ovulation (sperm can survive up to 5 days in the reproductive tract) and the 24 hours after the egg is released. Tracking methods include basal body temperature (BBT rises 0.2–0.5°F after ovulation), cervical mucus (becomes clear and stretchy near ovulation), and ovulation predictor kits (detect the LH surge 24–36 hours before ovulation). The CDC's reproductive health resources provide additional guidance. Try our ovulation calculator to predict your peak fertility days.

First trimester (weeks 1–12): major organ formation, morning sickness peaks around week 9, heartbeat detectable by week 6–7. Second trimester (weeks 13–26): rapid growth, anatomy scan at 18–20 weeks, baby begins moving. Third trimester (weeks 27–40): lung maturation, baby gains ~½ pound per week, full-term is 39–40 weeks. Prenatal care includes regular checkups, glucose screening at 24–28 weeks, and Group B Strep testing at 35–37 weeks. See the WHO prenatal care recommendations for evidence-based guidelines. Track your milestones with our pregnancy calculator.