How do ovulation predictor kits work?
Ovulation is part of the reproductive process when a matured egg is released by one of the ovaries during the fertile period in the menstrual phase. This egg courses through the fallopian tube and in to the uterus where a sperm fertilizes it leading to reproduction and gestation.
Determining pregnancy through ovulation
Ovulation occurs and lasts for about 24 hours during a monthly cycle. The lifespan of sperm cells is up to three days and fertilization can only occur during this period.
The odds on conceiving a baby are high around ovulation time. For normal and fertile couples, chances of conception are as high as 20 percent per cycle. Estimating ovulation time and having intercourse during the fertile period increases the probability of getting pregnant. This awareness could also help those attempting birth control to avoid intercourse within that time frame, though it is not 100 percent foolproof.
Identifying ovulation and fertility time
The period around the middle of a monthly cycle, falling roughly between two periods is the ovulation phase. It is best to know one’s body to be able to ascertain for imminent ovulation.
Ovulation Indicators:
Cervical mucus changes
During a cycle, mucus in the cervix gets altered. Elevated estrogen levels in the body increases mucus secretion and changes its texture changes. The mucus acts as a slippery medium to allow the sperm to glide via the cervix and through the uterus connecting with the egg in the fallopian tubes.
Elevated body temperature
Subsequent to ovulation, the body temperature rises up to 1.0 degree. A BBT or basal body temperature thermometer would signify the rise in temperature indicating ovulation. The release of an egg gives rise to hormone progesterone production which contributes in body temperature elevation. The two to three days prior to temperature rise are considered to be most fertile period.
One way to pin down the likely 24 hours of ovulation time is by checking temperature every morning over a few months. A couple of days prior to the period when the body temperature is likely to be at its highest would be the day ovulation would take place definitely.
Discomfort in the lower regions of the abdomen:
Many women feel distinct aches and pains in the region of the lower abdomen which may be mild or wrenching and could last over a few hours.
How to use ovulation predictor kits?
These kits are available over the counter without prescription. They are used to test urine to check for increase in the luteinizing hormone (LH) which escalates just prior to ovulation. Ovulation predictors are more reliable to use for their accuracy compared with the BBT method. They let you know when you at the peak of fertility. Chances of conception, therefore, are maximized.
They are not completely dependable though. LH surges occur even before ovulation and the kit might give misleading results.
For best results, follow directions on the kit. It also works best for women having regular periods because it makes it easier to estimate the best ovulation time. You should also check for Pregnancy signs to know if you have become pregnant.
Filed Under: Ovlulation Predictor Kits • Ovulation • Pregnancy Planning
[...] few years ago, ovulation predictor kits were awkward to use, messy and very expensive. Then again they were not a 100 percent accurate. [...]