Can I get pregnant after having sex just once?
Quick answer: YES!
If you had unprotected sex once and are now worried about being pregnant, call CPC to schedule a no-cost pregnancy test today.
What Are the Chances of Getting Pregnant from One Sexual Encounter?
How the fertile window works:
- The chance of pregnancy depends on where you are in your menstrual cycle when you have sex.
- Most women are only fertile for up to six days each month (ACOG, 2024).
- That fertile window includes the five days before ovulation — because sperm can survive that long — and the day of ovulation itself.
Why sperm survival matters:
- Even though an egg is viable for only 12–24 hours (The Women’s Hospital, 2023), sperm can live up to five days in a woman’s body (Cleveland Clinic, 2024).
- That means if you have sex a few days before ovulation, the sperm could still fertilize the egg when it’s released.
Why You Might Be More Likely to Have Sex During Fertile Days
- Studies show that many women naturally feel more interested in sex when they’re fertile — a biological cue that helps conception (Natural Cycles, 2024).
- That can make you less cautious, even if you usually avoid unprotected sex.
Oops – It Only Takes Once!
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We don’t have exact statistics for pregnancy from just one sexual encounter.
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However, research shows that 85 % of women who have unprotected sex even occasionally become pregnant within one year (American Pregnancy Association, 2024).
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So while the risk from a single encounter is lower than 85 %, it’s still possible.
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If you’re not ready for parenthood, it’s best to take precautions or talk to a trusted medical professional about your options.
The Science of Ovulation and Timing
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Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovary.
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If sperm are already present in the fallopian tubes, fertilization can occur almost immediately.
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If you’re curious about tracking ovulation, there are reliable apps and tools that can help.
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The only way to know if you’re pregnant after having sex once is through pregnancy testing.
Worried You Might Be Pregnant?
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It’s completely normal to feel anxious. At CPC, you can get a medical-grade pregnancy test and ultrasound — all at no cost.
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You’ll meet with our patient advocates and medial staff who can answer your questions and talk through your next steps in a confidential, judgment-free environment.