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Question:
I am in a monogamous relationship with my girlfriend of tem months. Eventually we are going to have sex (with a condom everytime)and I would like to know when the safest time to have sex is in relation to her period. I have heard of the cycle method of contraceptive or having sex when she is least able to get pregnant. When is this? Any help will be gladly appreciated. Thank you

Answer:
by Sandra L. Caron:
()
A woman typically ovulates 12-14 days before her period. Ovulation and the few days leading up to ovulation are considered the riskiest times for getting pregnant. Having said that, I also should point out that there is great variability between women - some women may ovulate only 8 days before her period, others 18 days before her period. You mention the natural family planning method - where one can try to predict ovulation by looking at clues such as cervical mucus changes and temperature. That may be something you want to explore with your partner. If you plan to use condoms, please know they are considered effective in preventing pregnancy if used correctly and consistently everytime. Best wishes.

Reviewed by: Patricia Fawver Ph.D. in Sexology

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