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As it is not possible to become pregnant outside of your
fertile 2-3 days each cycle, which is around ovulation.
It is therefore very important that you know when you are ovulating.
Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 of your
menstrual cycle. Count the first day of your last period as day 1. There are some natural changes in a female body that indicate
when your pre-ovulation days are. Knowing about these changes can help
your chances of conceiving.
Methods of ovulation prediction
Before seeking a doctor's advice, try the following methods
of ovulation prediction.
Basal body temperature method
Your body temperature at rest (basal body temperature)
rises very slightly after ovulation has occurred. This increase is as
a result of a rise in the hormone progestogen.
To detect this temperature increase, you have to take your temperature
at about the same time everyday BEFORE you get out of bed and BEFORE you consume any fluids or food. You should begin checking your temperature on the first day of your
period and continue throughout the month. Keep a record of your temperature
for several months so you can see if there is a pattern to your cycle.
A rise in temperature by 0.2ºc to 0.4ºc suggests
that you have ovulated sometime in the last few days. It is important
that you understand this means you have missed your most fertile time.
If you have regular cycles, you can use this method to ‘predict’
which day you will ovulate in your next cycle. This method should only
be used as a general guideline as many other factors can affect your body
temperature. There are special thermometers available called ‘basal
thermometers’, which make reading this rise in temperature easier.
Checking your cervical mucus
The cells lining the cervix produce mucus. The appearance of this mucus (vaginal
discharge) changes as hormone levels rise to prepare your body for
ovulation. You can check your cervical mucus change using, either your
fingers or toilet paper, wiped over the entrance to the vagina .
In the early part of the cycle, the mucus is thick
and sticky. As ovulation approaches, the mucus thins and becomes clear. When it is in this state,
it is easy for sperm to pass through the cervix. The mucus stage, just
before ovulation usually only lasts about 2-3 days and most women can
learn to recognise it.
There are usually 3 stages in the change of mucus
during your cycle and these are the changes you need to be aware of
when checking your cervical mucus, they are as follows: -
- Early mucus - this mucus is moist, sticky and
thick, it may be white in colour. At this stage it should hold its
shape between your fingers. The mucus blocks the cervix, making it
difficult for sperm to get through.
- Transitional mucus - this mucus is wetter, thinner
and cloudier in appearance. There will also be an increased amount.
This mucus will be slightly stretchy between your fingers.
- Highly fertile mucus- this is the type of mucus
you need to be aware of. The mucus is very slippery, thin and it will
be clear in colour. There will also be a great increase in the amount
of mucus present and it is usually visible in your underwear. This
type of mucus is very stretchy between your fingers.
You should be aware that changes
in your mucus may also be a result of an infection. If you notice anything
different from what is usual for you or if a strong smell is present,
you should consult your doctor or local G.U.M.
clinic for advice.
Ovulation prediction kits
Ovulation predictor kits are available to use in
the privacy of your own home. The kits detect the ‘L.H. surge’
that occurs in your body before ovulation begins and so helps to work
out the best time for intercourse. Once the ‘L.H. surge’ has
occurred, ovulation will usually follow in the next 24 - 48 hours. Ovulation
tests are the most reliable and accurate method of predicting your most
fertile days.
Related topics
Ovulation Tests
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