Day 9 of the menstrual cycle
In short: what happens on day 9?
Day 9 of the menstrual cycle is when the fertile window opens in a 28-day cycle. The dominant follicle keeps growing and oestrogen continues to rise. Cervical mucus increases and becomes creamy, a change that helps sperm reach the uterus and survive for longer.
Day 9 of the menstrual cycle – animated explainer
Day 9: cycle dial, uterus and ovaries, hormone levels (illustrative animation).
What the animation shows
- FSH
- Follicle-stimulating hormone: starts the growth of follicles in the ovary
- LH
- Luteinising hormone: its sudden surge triggers ovulation
- E2
- Oestrogen (oestradiol): thickens the lining of the uterus
- P4
- Progesterone: prepares the uterus for a possible pregnancy
- BBT
- Thermometer and dots below: basal body temperature
- RING
- Coloured ring: the 28-day cycle and its phases; the green arc marks the fertile days
- MM
- The measurement in the uterus shows lining thickness; in the ovary it shows follicle or corpus luteum size
Phase
Follicular phase
Chance of pregnancy
Moderate
Uterine lining
6.5 mm
Follicle
13.5 mm
FSH
30
LH
20
Oestrogen
45
Basal body temperature
36.31°C
What is happening in your body today?
The dominant follicle is about 13–14 mm. The uterine lining reaches 6–7 mm.
Hormones
Oestrogen rises quickly.
How you might feel
You may notice more discharge, more energy and a higher sex drive.
Chance of pregnancy
The chance of pregnancy is moderate; the fertile window has opened.
Tips for today
- If you are trying to conceive, having sex every 2–3 days is recommended
- If you use lubricant, choose a sperm-friendly product
- Keep track of your cervical mucus and ovulation tests, if you use them
When to see a doctor
See your doctor if your discharge changes colour, smells unpleasant or causes itching.
Menstrual cycle day by day: table
| Day | What happens | Fertile window |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | First Day of Your Period | — |
| Day 2 | Heaviest Bleeding Day | — |
| Day 3 | FSH Rises, Follicles Grow | — |
| Day 4 | Bleeding Eases, Oestrogen Rises | — |
| Day 5 | Last Day of Your Period | — |
| Day 6 | Follicular Phase Begins | — |
| Day 7 | Dominant Follicle Is Selected | — |
| Day 8 | Oestrogen Rises, Fertile Window Nears | Low |
| Day 9 | Fertile Window Begins | Moderate |
| Day 10 | Fertile Window, Higher Pregnancy Odds | Moderate |
| Day 11 | 3 Days Before Ovulation | High |
| Day 12 | Oestrogen Nears Its Peak | High |
| Day 13 | LH Surge: Ovulation Is Near | Highest |
| Day 14 | Ovulation Day | Highest |
| Day 15 | Luteal Phase Begins | Moderate |
| Day 16 | Progesterone Rises | Low |
| Day 17 | Luteal Phase and Increased Appetite | — |
| Day 18 | Breast Tenderness May Start | — |
| Day 19 | Implantation Window Opens | — |
| Day 20 | Implantation Bleeding Possible | — |
| Day 21 | Progesterone Peak (Day 21 Test) | — |
| Day 22 | Mid-Luteal Phase | — |
| Day 23 | PMS Symptoms May Start | — |
| Day 24 | Hormones Start to Fall | — |
| Day 25 | Late Luteal Phase and PMS | — |
| Day 26 | Progesterone Drop and Cramps | — |
| Day 27 | 1 Day Before Your Period | — |
| Day 28 | Last Day of Your Cycle | — |
Frequently asked questions
Can you get pregnant on day 9 of your cycle?
Yes, it is possible. In a 28-day cycle, day 9 is the first day of the fertile window, and the chance of pregnancy increases as ovulation approaches.
What does discharge look like on your fertile days?
As ovulation approaches, discharge increases and changes from creamy to slippery and clear; at the most fertile time it resembles raw egg white.
How often should you have sex when trying to conceive?
Having sex every 1–2 days during the fertile window gives you the best chance of getting pregnant.
Gynaecology check-ups and follow-up at SoftCare Clinic
Book an appointment with our specialist doctors for irregular periods, painful periods or pregnancy planning.
The information on this page is general guidance based on a typical 28-day cycle and does not replace a medical examination. It should not be used as a method of contraception.
Medical content editor: Op. Dr. Şükrü Sanus