The moment you and your partner have decided to have a baby, you will by default start keeping track of your ovulation schedule! Since the chances of conception are always exceptionally higher when you are ovulating, staying in the know-how of your ovulation cycle is always a good idea!
Ovulation basically occurs when your body releases one or more eggs from one of your ovaries. It essentially takes place near the end of your fertile time between your periods. Did you know that close to 10-20 easily mature inside your ovaries every month? Amazing isn’t it? Out of these, the most mature one is then released into the fallopian tube during the process of ovulation. The fallopian tubes are the main way through which your ovaries are connected.
If you are looking to get pregnant then your matured egg needs to meet your partner’s sperm in your fallopian tube so that it can get fertilized there. But you also need to remember that your egg does not last for more than 24 hours after you have ovulated, so if you are timing the conception, you need to time it quite carefully. But another good side to it is that the sperm lives inside your uterus for close to 7 days, so your window of fertility may yet not be closed either.
You can easily tell you are fertile by noting down the length of your menstrual cycle. Ovulation essentially occurs close to 14 days before your next menstrual cycle. But since ovulation varies from cycle to cycle you can easily give or take a few days! However, if you are still confused, then there are many tests available on the market too to help you determine whether you are ovulating or not! These kits that help you determine whether you are ovulating or not do so by detecting the presence of the luteinizing hormone in your urine. This is so because 12-36 hours prior to your ovulation, the hormone levels increase tremendously, enabling you to know when the right time is for you!
When you do get a positive on your ovulation test, a mere 12-36 hours later, you start ovulating. You also need to remember that you need not wait to try conceiving your baby till the time you start ovulating. Since most women are already in their fertility period before you even test positive for the ovulation test, you can easily start trying to conceive anytime! However remember to always follow the instructions mentioned in the ovulation kit itself, instead of improvising on it! That is what will give you the best and most accurate results!
We really hope that we have been able to address any concerns and questions you might have had regarding ovulation! We cannot wait for your little bundle of joy to show up!
FAQ's
Q. What is ovulation and why is it important when trying to conceive?
Ans.Ovulation is the release of a mature egg from the ovary into the fallopian tube. It typically happens once per menstrual cycle. Since fertilization can only occur after ovulation, tracking it helps you time intercourse to boost your chances of conceiving naturally and efficiently.
Q. When during my cycle does ovulation occur?
Ans.Ovulation usually occurs around 14 days before your next period. For a typical 28-day cycle, that means ovulation happens around day 14. However, this may vary slightly from cycle to cycle, so it's helpful to track your cycle or use an ovulation predictor kit.
Q. How long does an egg live after ovulation?
Ans.An egg remains viable for fertilization for about 12 to 24 hours after it’s released. That’s why timing is crucial if you're trying to conceive. Having intercourse just before and during ovulation increases the chances of the sperm meeting the egg in time.
Q. How long can sperm survive inside the uterus?
Ans.Sperm can survive inside the uterus and fallopian tubes for up to 5–7 days. That’s why it’s possible to get pregnant even if you have intercourse several days before ovulation. This sperm lifespan provides a wider fertility window than the egg’s short life.
Q. How can I tell when I’m ovulating?
Ans.Signs of ovulation include changes in cervical mucus (clear and stretchy), mild abdominal pain, a slight rise in basal body temperature, or increased libido. You can also use ovulation predictor kits that detect luteinizing hormone (LH) surges in your urine for accuracy.
Q. What is a luteinizing hormone (LH) surge?
Ans.A luteinizing hormone surge is a rapid increase in LH levels in your body, which triggers the release of an egg from the ovary. Ovulation typically occurs 12–36 hours after this surge, and most ovulation predictor kits work by detecting this hormonal increase in urine.
Q. When should I use an ovulation predictor kit?
Ans.Begin testing a few days before your expected ovulation date. For a 28-day cycle, start around day 10. Use the test at the same time daily and follow instructions closely. A positive result means ovulation is likely within the next 12–36 hours—your most fertile window.
Q. Should I wait for a positive ovulation test before trying to conceive?
Ans.No, you don't need to wait. Since sperm can survive up to 7 days, having intercourse in the days leading up to ovulation also increases your chances of conception. Most women are already fertile before a positive test, so don’t wait until after you test positive.
Q. How many eggs mature each month during ovulation?
Ans.Each month, 10–20 eggs begin to mature inside your ovaries, but typically only one fully matures and is released during ovulation. This egg travels down the fallopian tube where it may meet sperm and become fertilized. The rest of the eggs are absorbed by the body.
Q. Can irregular cycles affect ovulation tracking?
Ans.Yes, irregular cycles can make ovulation harder to predict. In such cases, ovulation tests, basal body temperature tracking, and cervical mucus observations become especially helpful. Consulting a doctor is also recommended if you're trying to conceive with irregular periods or face difficulties tracking ovulation.
