How conception actually works
An egg is only viable for 12–24 hours after ovulation. Sperm, however, can survive in the reproductive tract for up to 5 days. This means your "fertile window" is roughly 5–6 days per cycle — the five days before ovulation and the day of. Having sex every 1–2 days during this window gives you the best odds. Timing intercourse to the day of ovulation, as many people try to do, is actually harder and no more effective than timing to the days before.
Tracking ovulation
The most reliable low-tech sign of ovulation is a change in cervical mucus — it becomes clear, stretchy, and similar to raw egg white around ovulation. Basal body temperature rises by 0.2–0.5°C after ovulation (confirming it happened, not predicting it). Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) detect the LH surge that precedes ovulation by 24–36 hours and are a good middle ground between no tracking and obsessive monitoring.
How long is "normal"
Most healthy couples under 35 conceive within 6 months of trying; 85% conceive within 12 months. After 35, the 12-month timeline shortens — doctors typically recommend evaluation after 6 months of trying without success. If you have known risk factors (irregular periods, previous pelvic infections, endometriosis, or prior surgery), it's worth a conversation with a gynaecologist sooner rather than later.
Managing the emotional side
Trying to conceive can become consuming very quickly, especially if it takes longer than expected. Setting a loose mental timeline for when you'll seek support, keeping other parts of your life nourishing, and being honest with your partner about how you're feeling all help. Many couples find that the monthly cycle of hope and disappointment strains the relationship — this is normal and worth acknowledging rather than pushing through alone.