Ovulation Tests

Author: Elizabeth Morgan

Instinct tells a woman that she is ready to conceive, but to be doubly sure take personal or laboratory tests. For starters, estimate the approximate time of ovulation by calculating the
length of the average menstrual cycle. Begin from day one, that is the first day of the menstrual period, and the last day is the day before the next period begins. If the menstrual cycle is
28 days, then subtract 17 days, which equals day 11. Use the predictor kit on day 11 and continue testing until positive. This means that you will ovulate within 24 to 36 hours.

This sounds intimidating, but in non-medical terms ovulation is interplay of glands and their hormones. Presence of progesterone is confirmed through blood tests and if the level is higher than 20nmol/L it is indicative of ovulation having taken place. The blood test is done around 3 to 10 days before the first day of menses. Another method to test ovulation is through pregnancy ultrasound whereby the presence of a fetus is verified. For women trying to conceive it is not advisable, as pelvic ultrasound has a similar success rate as pregnancy ultrasound.
Other methods of testing are checking on cervical mucous changes, basal body temperature or salivary ferning three to four days prior to ovulation.

Ovulation Tests are gaining popularity through the use of ovulation calendars or predictor kits to pin down fertile periods or avoid unwanted pregnancies. Normally women ovulate in
the middle of the monthly menstrual cycle, depending on the length of the cycle. Sometimes ovulation happens twice in a month or, in an unhealthy body, plays truant. Avoid drinking too much water or frequent urination when taking an Ovulation Test, as it limits accuracy.

For urine Ovulation Testing an early morning urine sample is ideal, as it contains the maximum concentrated hCG presence. If testing during the day, do not urinate 3 to 4 hours before test.
The response time for a home Ovulation Test is about five minutes. Since the LH surge at time of ovulation is brief, one should test at right time of month and day.

Another method of Ovulation Test is through test strips with control color bands and intensity baselines for reference. Certain medicines have an adverse effect on test results, especially fertility drugs or pills. Consult your doctor or wait for two menstrual cycles before monitoring LH levels. For maximum effect, store test kits at room temperature and read instructions carefully before doing a test. Other tracking devices are Basal Body temperature thermometer and mini microscopes for testing saliva or cervical mucus. An understanding of your ovulation cycle will help identify the testing methods.