Optimizing Fertility: Timing Intercourse for Conception

Question
I am 24 years old with 0 children. Last cycle April 7th.

Hello Dr. Rappaport,

My husband and I are trying to have a baby. We both have pretty hectic and tiring schedules. However, I am pretty well aware of when I ovulate each month and was wondering how close to ovulation and after (if at all) should we have intercourse. I'm assuming as much as possible but how long does the sperm survive or is viable and how long will the egg be around to be fertilized. This will give us a better idea on our best chances for conception. Thank you in advance.

Answer
If you have a normal 28 day cycle (from the first day of your period to the first day of your next period), ovulation occurs on cycle day #14. You can only become pregnant if you have unprotected sex on cycle day #13,14,15, or 16. This is due to the fact that sperm can remain viable for 12-24 hours and an egg (ovum) remains viable for 24-48 hours. So you can become pregnant from one day prior to ovulation up to two days after ovulatioin.