How To Calculate Your Own Ovulation

When you are trying to conceive a baby, a great deal often comes down to timing. This is why so many couples attempt to predict the time when ovulation occurs in order to have the best chance of conception. The key is to find the female partner’s most fertile period and then to ensure that there is sexual activity during this time.

When Does Ovulation Occur?

Ovulation usually takes place in the middle of the monthly reproductive cycle. A mature egg is released from the ovaries and moves down the fallopian tube. In the 24 hour period from this happening it is possible for the egg to be fertilized. After this time it is no longer functional and will be expelled during the next menstruation ready for for a new cycle to begin. The average cycle is 28 days and therefore counting from the last day of menstruation, on the 14th day ovulation will begin. Although there is only a 24 hour window to fertilize the egg, the women is actually fertile for a few days prior to ovulation as sperm can survive for up to 5 days. This means that you may well be fertile from day 10 to day 15 of your cycle. Of course if your cycle is longer then you will need to adjust your calculations.

Calculation Methods

There are a number of different methods which can be used to calculate ovulation. The most widely used method is the calendar method which involves identifying the fertile days in your cycle by carefully monitoring the start and length of your menstrual cycle over several months. If you do not have a stable cycle then this method is not very accurate.

Another common method is the basal temperature approach which identifies the ovulation period by charting changes in body temperature. You can’t feel it, but there is a variation in body temperature when ovulation occurs. This method means recording your temperature every morning and looking for that increase.

Finally, there is the observation of cervical mucus. When you are at your most fertile, the mucus will be clear and sticky, almost like the white of an egg. It is possible to collect and examine cervical mucus each day to look for this change which will allow sperm to enter the body more easily.

These methods are by no means exact sciences, but you can use any of them at home in order to increase the chances of getting pregnant. You can also improve your fertility by eating a healthy diet and eliminating stress from your life.

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