How Soon After Sex Can You Get Pregnant? What You Should Know

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider. 

If you’ve recently had unprotected sex or something unexpected happened, it’s normal to feel a wave of emotions: worry, confusion, or even a quiet sense of uncertainty. You might be asking yourself, Could I be pregnant? or How soon would I even know?

Whatever you're feeling or wondering, you are not alone. And you don’t have to figure this out on your own.

At Avail, we offer free, self-administered pregnancy tests and a safe, confidential space to pause and find clarity. While we are not a medical provider, we can walk with you as you take the next step.

Pregnancy Doesn’t Happen All at Once

Many people think pregnancy happens right after sex. But the truth is, it takes time. Several things have to happen in your body before a pregnancy can begin. Understanding that process can help ease some of the pressure you may be feeling right now.

Here’s a simple overview of the key steps.

Step 1: Ovulation

Ovulation is when the body releases an egg from one of the ovaries. This usually happens once during each menstrual cycle. For many people, it takes place around the middle of their cycle, but the exact timing can vary from month to month. Things like stress, illness, or changes in routine can shift when ovulation happens.



According to the Mayo Clinic, the egg is available for fertilization for only 12 to 24 hours after it is released. However, sperm can live in the body for up to five days. That means even if sex happened a few days before ovulation, pregnancy may still be possible if sperm are still present when the egg arrives.

Step 2: Fertilization

Fertilization happens when one sperm joins with the egg. This usually takes place in a fallopian tube. It is a key step, but it does not mean a pregnancy has started yet.



The fertilized egg still needs to make its way to the uterus and attach to the uterine lining. That step is called implantation.

Step 3: Implantation

Implantation is when the fertilized egg connects with the lining of the uterus and begins to grow. This is the point when the body starts producing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the hormone that pregnancy tests look for.



According to the Cleveland Clinic, implantation usually happens about six to ten days after ovulation. That’s why pregnancy tests are not always accurate right away. The body needs time before the hormone can be detected.

When Should You Take a Pregnancy Test?

If you’re wondering when to take a pregnancy test, the most helpful thing to know is that timing matters. Pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone called hCG, which the body only begins to produce after a fertilized egg has implanted in the uterus. This step takes time. That’s why even if fertilization has happened, a test taken too early may not give you an accurate result.

For the most accurate result, wait until at least the first day of your missed period. If your cycle is irregular or you are unsure when your period is due, waiting at least one week after sex is often a good starting point.

Free Pregnancy Testing in a Supportive Space

Waiting can be hard, especially when you just want answers. If you're looking for a next step that feels simple and supportive, you can schedule a free pregnancy test appointment at our Midtown Manhattan office. 

The test is self-administered, and your results are available in just a few minutes. You'll also have the option to meet privately with a trained Avail advocate who is there to listen, not to judge.

Not Sure What You Need Right Now?

Maybe you're thinking ahead. Or maybe you're just trying to make it through today. Either way, it's okay to not have everything figured out.

You don’t have to make a decision right away. You don’t have to feel a certain way. You’re allowed to take this one step at a time.

Our team at Avail is here to offer a quiet space to think, to feel, or just to take a breath. You can talk with someone who will listen without judgment, support you without pressure, and help you explore what matters to you.

What We Offer at Avail NYC

At our Midtown Manhattan office, you can expect:

• Free, self-administered pregnancy tests with results in just a few minutes
• A confidential appointment with a trained Personal Advocate who is here to listen and support you
• Referrals to trusted medical providers, if you want follow-up care or next steps

We don’t offer medical services, diagnoses, or advice. But we do offer time, space, and support for whatever you’re navigating.

You Are Not Alone

You are allowed to feel uncertain. You are allowed to ask questions. And you are allowed to take one small step at a time.

We’re here to walk with you, whatever your next step may be. Schedule your free appointment today.

Avail NYC exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy or seeking support after an abortion. We are not a medical provider.