Your TTC Strategy 5: Predict Ovulation

One detectable sign of oncoming ovulation is the position of the cervix itself. During the beginning of a cycle, your cervix is low in the vagina, hard, and closed. But as ovulation approaches, it pulls back up, softens a bit, and opens just a little, to let the sperm through on their way to their target. Some women can easily feel these changes, while others have a tougher time. Check your cervix daily, using one or two fingers, and keep a chart of your observations.

The basal body temperature (BBT) chart helps to determine if and when ovulation has occurred. During the follicular phase, a woman's body temperature is relatively low. When progesterone production begins at ovulation, it produces a temperature rise that can be detected on a special BBT thermometer, available at most drug stores for $10 to $15. An increased body temperature for several days indicates ovulation has occurred. BBT charts cannot predict when ovulation is going to occur; they only confirm that ovulation has occurred after the fact. Some women will monitor changes in their cervical mucus along with their BBT. Used over time, however, BBT charts can indicate by patterns your likely fertile days, or provide you accurate details about irregular cycles.

If having sex every 36 to 48 hours during your fertility period isn't convenient for you and your partner, then the ability to clearly identify when ovulation will occur is the best method for you. The most popular type of ovulation predictor tests morning urine for LH, which is released about 24 hours prior to ovulation. Another type of ovulation kit measures estrogen levels in saliva. You apply a bit of saliva to a lens, then examine it under a microscope. Another device measures the amount of chloride in your sweat.