Ovulation is a key phase in the menstrual cycle when an egg is released from the ovary and ready for fertilization. For menstrual cycles that average 28 days long, ovulation normally occurs 14 days before your period begins.
If you are trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy, understanding the signs of ovulation can help since you are most likely to get pregnant if you have sex three to four days before ovulation begins until one day after it ends.
This article will highlight the common signs to look out for that may indicate you’re ovulating. However, if you want to talk to someone in person about your reproductive health, contact Elevier Women’s Center today to schedule your appointment.
Top Signs of Ovulation
Ovulation doesn’t always cause discernable symptoms, but when it does, you may notice:
- 1. Changes in Cervical Mucus: As ovulation approaches, cervical mucus becomes clearer, stretchier, and more slippery, similar to egg whites. This change creates a more conducive environment for sperm to travel and survive, increasing the chances of fertilization.
- 2. Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Shift: Monitoring your basal body temperature can help identify ovulation. BBT is your body’s temperature at rest. Just before ovulation, there might be a slight drop in BBT, followed by a noticeable rise of about 0.5 to 1 degree Fahrenheit after ovulation, indicating the release of an egg.
- 3. Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz): Some women experience a sharp or dull pain on one side of the lower abdomen, known as mittelschmerz, around the time of ovulation. This pain can last from a few minutes to a few hours and occurs due to the follicle rupturing and releasing the egg.
- 4. Increased Libido: Many women notice an increase in sexual desire during ovulation. This natural boost in libido can be attributed to hormonal changes and is thought to be nature’s way of encouraging reproduction.
- 5. Changes in Cervical Position: During ovulation, the cervix may become higher, softer, and more open. This change can be monitored through self-examination, though it may take some practice to determine your cervix’s normal position and how it moves during ovulation.
It’s important to note that this list isn’t exhaustive. You may notice other symptoms during ovulation or none at all.
Furthermore, you can find ovulation kits at many drug stores that are meant to help you determine if you’re ovulating.
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At Elevier Women’s Center, we care about your reproductive health. Contact us today to learn about all the ways we can help.