Ovulation: that crucial time each month when you’re believed to be at your most fertile, optimizing your chances of conception. With today’s ovulation test kits available for under $30, knowing when you ovulate should be a breeze. Yet, month after month, you find yourself not pregnant, even when the ovulation test turned purple and your husband was summoned at just the right moment. Clearly, ovulation remains one of those human body mysteries that keep you guessing. The good news is that you can learn to predict ovulation on your own, even without these handy test kits. Many women, with practice and close attention, can identify their ovulation as easily as they can recognize when they are menstruating—without counting days or using test kits. It’s also worth noting that some women conceive better early, and by the time the egg is released (ovulation), it may be too late. Need help with ovulation? Read on…
Counting Days
Let’s first assume you’re the perfect woman with 28-day cycles. To predict ovulation, you would simply count 14 days from the first day of your period. Many women mistakenly start counting from the end of their period. At the 14-day mark, you should either be releasing an egg or about to release one. Remember, this little egg can live in your uterus for a day or two before being flushed away, so if it encounters sperm, the hope is they will hook up and implant! However, the Academy of Obstetrics & Gynecology predicts that as many as 78% of women do not have regular periods or reliable monthly cycles. They recommend counting 10 to 17 days from the first day of your period and assuming you are ovulating somewhere in that week.
Monitoring Basal Body Temperature
Another method for predicting ovulation involves monitoring your basal body temperature. This technique can be time-consuming, as you need to track your temperature daily to identify the moment it peaks. Body temperature typically rises by half a degree to a whole degree during ovulation due to increases in progesterone. However, this method can take a few months to yield accurate results, and if you become ill with a fever, your data may be skewed. Many physicians still recommend this approach, as it helps you become more attuned to your body. Be aware that digital thermometers may yield inconsistent readings, even when taken back-to-back. If you choose this method, there are many ovulation prediction charts available online to help you get started.
Ovulation Kits
If you prefer to use technology, ovulation kits are the easiest route. These tests predict a pre-ovulation surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which occurs just before an egg is released. Kits typically come with a 7-10 day supply, and you should test with your first urine in the morning. Many women find themselves going through several packs, which can become costly. If you follow the instructions carefully, you should have a good chance of determining when you ovulate.
The “Listen to Your Body” Method
About 20% of women are acutely aware when they ovulate for various reasons. You may feel more sexual, demonstrating our animal instincts. Pay attention to your cervical mucus; during ovulation, you may notice an increase in wetness. Doctors suggest placing it between your fingers to see if it stretches, indicating ovulation mucus. This occurs due to hormonal surges, serving as a natural vehicle to enhance sexual pleasure and carry sperm directly to the awaiting egg. Some women, about 40%, can even feel the release of an egg, which may cause a brief but sharp pain. While this discomfort might affect your mood for sex, it’s a reliable sign of ovulation. Other symptoms can include abdominal pain, bloating, and even increased hunger.
It’s important to understand that ovulation can fluctuate. One month you may ovulate from one ovary, and the next month from the other. If you’re reading this article, you likely want to conceive. Remember, staying relaxed and not obsessing over the process will significantly aid your fertility. Your body chemistry and cycles can change due to stress, diet, or medications. Aim to maintain your health and listen to your body. Predicting ovulation is not overly complicated, but it can be frustrating. Ensure you’re in the best emotional and physical state possible before embarking on conception. Keep in mind that some eggs may last several days in the uterus, while others do not, and some sperm can survive inside you for several days before ovulation. Enjoy the intimacy of the moment and try to make conception more than just a routine task.
