Understanding Ovulation: Signs, Symptoms, and Tracking Methods

What is ovulation period?

Ovulation is a key part of a woman's menstrual cycle, occurring when a mature egg is released from the ovary, typically around 14 days before the start of the next period. This egg then travels down the fallopian tube, where it may meet sperm and become fertilised.

Understanding ovulation is crucial for fertility, as it marks the fertile window when a woman is most likely to conceive. This window usually spans five to seven days, starting a few days before ovulation and ending shortly after.

While ovulation typically occurs around the middle of a 28-day cycle, the exact timing can vary. It is important to track physical changes and use ovulation prediction methods for those trying to conceive or for contraceptive planning.

What are the signs of ovulation?

Recognising the signs of ovulation can help women better understand their menstrual cycle and pinpoint their fertile window. Here are some common indicators of ovulation:

1. Ovulation pain 

• Some women experience a mild ache or pain on one side of the lower abdomen, known as mittelschmerz. This pain occurs due to the ovary releasing an egg and can last from a few minutes to a few hours. 

• In addition to sharp pain, some might also experience a burning sensation due to the release of fluid from the follicle when the egg is expelled. This can irritate the abdominal lining or surrounding areas, potentially causing a sensation of heaviness.

• It's also worth noting that ovary pain may not always be related to ovulation. Various other factors, including gastrointestinal issues or pelvic conditions, can cause similar discomfort. 

2. Changes in body temperature

• Basal body temperature (BBT) is your temperature taken first thing in the morning before you get out of bed or engage in any physical activity. 

• Following ovulation, BBT slightly increases due to the release of progesterone. If pregnancy does not occur, your BBT will stay elevated until your period begins, at which point it will drop back to its normal level. 

3. Changes in cervical mucus

• Leading up to ovulation, you may notice an increase in cervical mucus discharge. 

• This cervical mucus becomes clearer, stretchier, and more slippery, resembling the consistency of raw egg whites just before ovulation. 

Learn more about the different types of vaginal discharge and what they mean here.

4. Breast tenderness

• Breast tenderness, or mastalgia, is a common symptom around ovulation due to hormonal changes. 

• During this phase, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause the breast tissue to become more sensitive, swollen, and sore. You might notice a feeling of fullness or discomfort in your breasts, and they may feel heavier than usual.

• Typically, breast tenderness lasts a few days, beginning shortly before ovulation and easing afterwards. If the pain persists, becomes severe, or is accompanied by other symptoms like unusual lumps or discharge, it’s important to consult a specialist to rule out other potential issues.

5. Increased libido

• Many women notice a natural increase in libido around ovulation. This biological response can enhance the likelihood of conception during the fertile window. 

• Typically, the increase in sexual desire occurs in the days leading up to and including ovulation. This natural boost in libido can be a positive sign of hormonal balance and reproductive health.

How to predict and track ovulation?

Accurately predicting and tracking ovulation can greatly enhance your understanding of your menstrual cycle, whether you are trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy. Here are some effective methods to predict and track ovulation:

1. Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Charting

• Basal body temperature (BBT) charting involves taking your temperature every morning before getting out of bed. During ovulation, your BBT slightly increases and remains elevated until your next period. 

• By charting your temperature daily, you can identify the pattern and predict your ovulation. However, BBT charting can be unreliable for those with even minor irregularities in their menstrual cycle, as small temperature fluctuations can be influenced by factors other than ovulation.

2. Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs)

• Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) detect the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) that occurs 24-48 hours before ovulation. These home tests involve urinating on a test stick or dipping it into a urine sample. 

• A positive result indicates that ovulation is likely to occur within the next day or two, making it a prime time for conception.

3. Cervical mucus monitoring

• Monitoring changes in cervical mucus is another natural method to track ovulation. 

• Around ovulation, cervical mucus becomes clearer, stretchier, and more slippery, resembling egg whites. This change facilitates sperm movement and can help you identify your most fertile days.

4. Calendar method

• The calendar method involves tracking your menstrual cycle on a calendar to predict ovulation. Ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before the start of your next period. 

• By tracking the length of your cycles over several months, you can estimate your ovulation window. However, this method is less accurate for women with irregular cycles.

5. Fertility apps

• Many smartphone apps are available to help track menstrual cycles and predict ovulation.

• These apps often combine multiple methods, including BBT, cervical mucus monitoring, and calendar tracking, to provide a more accurate prediction of your fertile window.

FAQ

How many days after your period can you get pregnant?

The timing of conception varies for each woman, depending on her menstrual cycle. Here are some key points to consider:

• You can potentially get pregnant right after your period ends, especially if you have a short or irregular menstrual cycle. While the chances are low, pregnancy is possible even during your period.
• Ovulation typically occurs 12-16 days before the start of your next period. For a 28-day cycle, this would be around day 14.
• The "fertile window" includes the 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. This is when you're most likely to conceive.
• Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to 5-7 days. This means sex several days before ovulation could still result in pregnancy.
• The exact timing depends on your individual cycle length. Women with shorter cycles may ovulate sooner after their period ends.
• To estimate when you might ovulate, you can subtract 14 days from the length of your average menstrual cycle. However, ovulation timing can vary from cycle to cycle.
• There is no completely "safe" time to have unprotected sex without risking pregnancy. If you want to avoid pregnancy, it's best to use contraception throughout your cycle.

To maximize chances of conception, it's recommended to have regular intercourse every 2-3 days throughout your cycle, particularly in the days leading up to and including ovulation.

What are some signs that ovulation is over?

1. Changes in cervical mucus

   • After ovulation, cervical mucus becomes thicker and stickier, or may decrease in amount.

2. Basal body temperature (BBT) rise

   • There's typically a slight increase in BBT (0.5 to 1°F) after ovulation occurs.

3. Reduction in libido

   • Sex drive often decreases after ovulation is over.

4. Abdominal discomfort subsides

   • Any ovulation-related cramping or pain (mittelschmerz) usually goes away.

5. Changes in mood

   • Mood swings may subside as hormone levels shift after ovulation.

6. Cervical changes

   • The cervix becomes lower and firmer after ovulation.

7. Decrease in breast tenderness

   • Any breast sensitivity experienced during ovulation may lessen.

8. Luteinizing Hormone (LH) levels decline

   • This can be detected using ovulation predictor kits.

9. Progesterone levels rise

   • This hormone increase can be measured with certain fertility monitors.

10. End of fertile cervical mucus

    • The clear, slippery "egg white" consistency mucus ends.

It's important to note that these signs can vary from person to person and cycle to cycle. Using multiple methods to track ovulation, such as monitoring cervical mucus changes, tracking BBT, and using ovulation predictor kits, can provide a more accurate picture of when ovulation has occurred.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a fertility specialist at Thomson Fertility Centre. Book an appointment today.