10:40 28th January 2017 | Menstrual Cycle

Ovulation Ovulation Symptoms Ovulation Signs Regular Ovulation Irregular Ovulation Cervical Mucus Pelvic Pain Cervical Changes

When trying to conceive, it’s important to know what ovulation is and when it occurs. This blog post will discuss the five top signs of how to know when you’re ovulating. Remember, every woman is different, so by understanding your cycle and your ovulation symptoms you can increase the chances of falling pregnant by choosing optimal times for intercourse.

What is Ovulation?

It is useful to understand what ovulation is and when it happens. You might already know that ovulation is the phase in your menstrual cycle when the ovary releases a mature egg that travels down the fallopian tube for fertilisation. Women are born with millions of immature eggs, all waiting to be released, usually one per month, a few weeks after menstruation starts.

When Do Women Ovulate?

It is generally estimated that ovulation occurs on day 15 of a woman’s menstrual cycle, however, everyone is different. Women of childbearing age have a menstrual cycle that lasts between 28 – 32 days. Between day 10 and 19 ovulation can be expected to occur (roughly 12 – 16 days before the next menstruation). Speak to our fertility consultants if you are unfamiliar with your body’s menstrual calendar.

Ovulation can be irregular or not occur for some women, especially when pregnant, postmenopause or when consistently using birth control. The following can also cause ovulation to cease:

• Medications: e.g. some antidepressants, anti-nausea medications and chemo.
• Certain diseases/disorders: e.g. PCOS or premature ovarian failure.
• Lifestyle factors: stress or being significantly over- or underweight.

It is recommended that you see a physician if you experience irregular (short, i.e. > 21 or long, i.e.  < 35 days) menstrual cycles.

5 Signs of Ovulation

Some women feel moody, have headaches or experience breast tenderness, while others do not notice any changes. The following five signs are brought on by hormonal shifts which may indicate that you are ovulating.

1. Change in Cervical Mucus: For most women, an increased amount of estrogen production leads to stretchy, clear mucus (similar to egg white) that facilitates the sperm’s journey to the egg.
2. More Sensitive Sense of Smell: Some women experience a heightened sense of smell. There might also be a stronger attraction to androstenone, the male pheromone.
3. Sensitive Breasts: Soreness, tenderness or sensitivity of the breasts and/or nipples is not uncommon.
4. Pain: Some women experience mild pelvic or lower abdominal pain, also known as Mittelschmerz (usually one side or the other, alternating each month). Light vaginal bleeding, discharge or nausea may accompany the typically short-lived ache(s). If severe or persistent, contact your doctor immediately.
5. 5.Light Spotting or Discharge: It is not that common, but not abnormal (unless it persists) to notice brown discharge. If it persists or increases, contact your doctor.

Other Signs

Cervical Changes: Ask your gynaecologist how to check for changes.

Changes in Libido: An increased sex drive is noticed by some women, but it can be caused by other factors as well.

[Info Source: The Bump]

Are you experiencing problems with ovulation?

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