Ovulation Symptoms

It is valuable to Understand Your Body’s Ovulation Symptoms

Ovulation Symptoms may occur as your ovary prepares to release a mature egg. Not all women noticeably experience signs of ovulation, which is why it is helpful to understand as much as you can about ovulation symptoms so you know what to look for.

Ovulation is a crucial step in the fertility process. Understanding your fertile days tells you when the best time of the month is to try to conceive. Tracking ovulation symptoms is empowering: it is a tangible way to take action that can increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Ovulation Symptoms You May Feel

Ovulation Symptoms are not always obvious and you may question what you are feeling. Better defining what you are looking for may help you understand what your body is experiencing.

Identifying Ovulation Symptoms through Ovulation Pain
Some women experience mild pelvic pain or twinges during ovulation, known as mittelschmerz. This discomfort usually occurs on one side of the lower abdomen and may last for a few hours to a couple of days. While not all women experience ovulation pain, it can be a helpful symptom for identifying your fertile period.

Identifying Ovulation Symptoms through Increased Libido
Hormonal changes associated with ovulation can have a positive effect on your sex drive. Many women notice a surge in libido around the time of ovulation, possibly nature’s way of increasing the chances of conception. If you find yourself feeling more aroused or experiencing heightened sexual desire, it could be an indication that you are ovulating.

Identifying Ovulation Symptoms through Breast Tenderness or Sensitivity
Another ovulation sign resulting from hormonal fluctuations is breast tenderness. This one can be difficult to discern, as your breasts may also be extra sensitive before your period (PMS) or in early pregnancy. If you notice breast changes specifically around the middle of your cycle, it could be an ovulation symptom.

Ovulation Symptoms You Can Track

It can be frustrating to rely solely on physical sensations of ovulation symptoms. At times, it can feel like a guessing game. If you want to have more concrete evidence, that’s where ovulation symptoms you can track come in. Keeping a daily log of these ovulation symptoms can help you feel confident you know when your most fertile days of the month are.

Tracking Ovulation Symptoms with Cervical Mucus
The consistency and appearance of cervical discharge can provide valuable information about ovulation. The cycle begins with the first day of menstrual bleeding. In the cycle days following the period, cervical mucus is dry. During the fertile window, typically a few days before and during ovulation, cervical mucus becomes more abundant, slippery, and resembles raw egg whites. This change is a notable and reliable symptom of ovulation. The mucus’ texture is stretchable to at least two inches between fingers. This stretchable nature facilitates sperm movement through the cervix and into the fallopian tubes, enhancing the chances of fertilization.

Tracking Ovulation Symptoms using OPKs
Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) detect the luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in your urine. Taking a test at the same time each day gives you the power to identify the surge that comes right before ovulation. By following the instructions provided with the kit, you can identify your fertile window with greater accuracy.

Tracking Ovulation Symptoms with BBT
One of the most reliable indicators of ovulation is a change in basal body temperature (BBT). BBT refers to your body’s lowest resting temperature, typically measured orally in the morning immediately upon waking (before even sitting up). Around ovulation, you may notice a slight rise in BBT due to an increase in progesterone levels. Tracking your BBT over several menstrual cycles can help identify your unique ovulation pattern.

Ovulation Challenges

Not all women experience ovulation symptoms, and some symptoms may be subtle or go unnoticed. Every woman’s experience may vary, and it’s important to track any ovulation symptoms over multiple cycles to clearly identify patterns. If you’re actively trying to conceive and encounter difficulties, or are concerned you are not ovulating, talk to your provider and see when it may be appropriate to reach out to a fertility specialist.

If you are local to the Texas area, IVFMD offers guidance and support on your fertility journey. Working with a specialist and completing a fertility assessment is a great way to understand if any intervention, such as ovulation induction, is necessary.