How to Figure Out When I Ovulate

Ovulation occurs when the ovary releases a mature egg to be fertilized. The egg travels down the fallopian tubes, where it may be fertilized if intercourse takes place and a single sperm meets the egg. If fertilization occurs, the egg will continue to travel down the fallopian tubes before implanting into the thick lining of the uterus. If the egg is not fertilized it will begin to degenerate and will be shed from the body along with the lining of the uterus. There isn't an exact science for detecting ovulation but your body will show noticeable signs if you know what to look for. Record these signs on paper and you'll soon discover a pattern to your cycle so you can predict when you'll ovulate. You'll probably need to track these signs through three or more menstrual cycles before you can accurately predict ovulation. For the most accurate results, combine these tracking methods with the use of an ovulation predictor test.

Things You'll Need

• Basal thermometer
• Ovulation predictor test

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Instructions

• 1

  Starting on the first day after your period ends, record the daily changes in vaginal discharge (cervical fluid or cervical mucus). It will probably be dry and thin right after your period and will gradually become thicker, wetter and more abundant. Ovulation occurs when cervical fluid is at its thickest, most slippery and sticky state.

• 2

  Using a basal thermometer, record your waking temperature every morning at the same time before getting out of bed. After ovulation, body temperature will rise by 0.4 to 1 degrees, according to Baby Center. At this point you're no longer fertile but if you're trying to get pregnant you can take note of the pattern in body temperature changes so you can time intercourse just before your temperature rises.

• 3

  Use an ovulation predictor test to confirm your suspected day of ovulation, starting on the 11th day from the start of your period; be sure to test your urine at the same time every day for the most accurate results. First thing in the morning is generally not the best time, per Baby Center.

• 4

  Pay attention to any pain or twinges on one side of your abdomen around the time you're expecting ovulation; some women can actually feel a painful or achy sensation when their ovaries release an egg.