The path to pregnancy can pose many questions. One of the most common questions is ‘what is ovulation?’ Look no further—we break down what it is and how you know when you’re ovulating.
What is ovulation?
Ovulation is when one or more eggs are released from one of your ovaries. When you ovulate, that egg has a chance of getting fertilized, which means…you’re pregnant! You are most fertile two to three days before you ovulate through the day of ovulation.
6 key facts about ovulation:
- An egg can live for 12-24 hours after leaving the ovary
- Generally, one egg is released each time of ovulation
- Ovulation can be affected by disruption of routines, stress or illness
- Every woman is born with millions of immature eggs waiting until ovulation begins
- A menstrual period can occur even if ovulation hasn’t occurred
- If an egg isn’t fertilized, it disintegrates and is absorbed into the uterine lining
Here are 3 ways to help you better understand WHEN you are ovulating:
Check the calendar
The easiest way to estimate when you’ll ovulate is to count back—here’s how:
- Figure out what day your next period is starting
- From that day, count back 12 days, then another four
- You’re most likely to ovulate during these 5 days
- Ovulation usually happens around day 14 in a 28 day cycle
Listen to your body
You may feel slight pain or cramps in your lower abdomen during ovulation—pay attention to the signs your body is giving you.
Know your basal body temperature
Get out the thermometer! Take your temperature first thing when you wake up for a few months to learn your body’s pattern. Right after ovulation occurs, it will rise about half a degree.
Purchase an ovulation predictor kit
Found at your local drugstore or grocery store, ovulation predictor kits can detect the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) in your urine just before ovulation.
The physicians at My OBGyne are here for your exciting journey to becoming a parent. Schedule an appointment to address any questions or concerns.
Think you may be pregnant? Here are 8 early signs of pregnancy to get a better idea of whether or not you may be expecting.