One of the questions that patients often ask me is “how do I know if I’m ovulating?” If you’re trying to use your natural fertility to get pregnant, it’s an important question that needs answering.
In general, your ovaries release an egg every 14th day if your ovulation cycle is regular. A regular ovulation cycle lasts for 28 days, so usually the window of natural fertility is from the 10th to the 15th day of a cycle.
However, as many of my patients know, not every woman has a regular ovulation cycle. In fact, the American Pregnancy Association found that the average fertility phase spans from day 7 to day 20. This wide stretch of time can make it difficult to calculate when you should try to conceive. Luckily, your body also exhibits sign of ovulation. You just have to know what to look for so you can try to take advantage of your natural fertility.
Cervical Discharge
If you find that your cervical discharge, either in your underwear or with a vaginal swab, is clear, runny, and slippery, then you can be sure that you will ovulate soon. The consistency is similar to that of a raw egg. Ovulation usually occurs on the last day that discharge displays these properties.
Luteinizing Hormone
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) levels are a clear indication of imminent ovulation if they’ve been steadily rising for three days. You can buy an ovulation predictor kit and test yourself from the comfort of your own home.
Tender Breasts
Rising estrogen levels during your ovulation cycle can affect your breasts. Experiencing tenderness or dull pain is not uncommon and can indicate that you are about to ovulate. This sign of ovulation is, however, less accurate because breast tenderness can also occur after ovulation.
Cramps and Spotting Before a Period
Some women report cramping on one side of their body and light spotting about halfway through their ovulation cycle. These symptoms may be due to the release of an egg, with the pain occurring on the side of the ovary that releases the egg.
Natural Fertility and Sex Cravings
Many women also report feeling a desire for more sex around the time they are ovulating. Increased libido often happens about three days before an LH surge, lasting around a week long.
Being able to tell when you’re ovulating requires you to be in touch with your body. Now that you know some of the signs of ovulation, use it to your advantage and try to time conception during those times. Want to increase your chances of natural fertility? Schedule an appointment today. We offer an introductory consultation with the Acupuncture Physician to customize your treatment plan. Call 305-772-4386.