Top Signs and Symptoms of Ovulation: How to Know When You’re Ovulating

It’s like preparing for an exam; when you plan when and how to study at the right time, it reduces and the possibility of good results is greater. The same concept, to some extent, can be applied to conception! If you’re ready to start a new chapter and are trying for a baby, good food, health, and positive energy matter; however, timing is everything. Recognizing when you’re ovulating and in your fertile window (the entire 6-day period when pregnancy is possible) can give you an edge. 

Ovulation is when your body releases an egg, and engaging in intimacy during this time, particularly within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, significantly increases your chances of pregnancy. 

So, how do you know your “fertile window” and ovulation period? Your body gives subtle hints like changes in cervical mucus (it becomes clear and stretchy like egg white), breast tenderness, or even a higher sex drive. Paying attention to these signs of ovulation can help you tune into your body and boost your chances naturally.

Are “fertile window” and “ovulation period” the Same?

The "fertile window" and the "ovulation period" may seem related; however, they are not the same. Here is the basic difference:

1. Fertile window

The fertile window is the broader timeframe when the chances of conceiving increase. This consists of the days preceding ovulation (up to 5 days before), and it includes the day of ovulation itself.

2. Ovulation

It is the exact time when an egg is released from the ovary. Ovulation generally lasts about 16 to 32 hours. Knowing the time of ovulation can increase the chances of conception.

Read Also: Stages of Menstrual Cycle: Menstruation, Ovulation, Hormones

How Ovulation Increases Chances of Pregnancy

Here is how ovulation increases your chances of pregnancy. Know what happens during ovulation.

• Ovulation is the moment of release of a mature egg (oocyte) from the ovary. This release is triggered by an increase in the luteinizing hormone (LH).​
• The egg moves towards the fallopian tubes with the help of tiny finger-like structures called fimbriae. During this journey, it can be fertilized by sperm.
• Around ovulation, the cervical mucus turns thinner and less acidic. This creates a friendly environment for sperm, helping them travel to the egg.​
• If the egg gets fertilized (called a zygote), it will continue to move down your fallopian tube and finally reach the uterus.​ Note, fertilization must happen within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, as the egg’s lifespan is short.​
• The uterus prepares itself with a thickened lining, ready to facilitate implantation when fertilization happens.​
• That's why the timing of intercourse when you are ovulating increases the chance of sperm meeting the egg. This makes pregnancy more likely.

Read Also: How To Choose The Best IVF Clinic For Your Journey: Key Factors To Consider

How to Know When You Are Ovulating?

Observe the following signs and symptoms so that you can match your timing with the ovulation period.

1. Cervical Mucus Changes

As the ovulation period comes near, mucus becomes clear, stretchy, and slippery (like egg whites). This is because of an increase in estrogen level, helping the sperm move easily to the egg in the fallopian tube.

2. Basal Body Temperature Slightly Increases

Your resting temperature can be slightly higher (by 0.5–1°F) after ovulation because of increased progesterone levels. You can measure the temperature by BBT thermometer; if it increased, this signals that an egg was recently released from the ovary.

3. Mild, One-Sided, Lower Abdominal Pain (Mittelschmerz)

Some feel a dull or sharp twinge on one side of the lower abdomen when the egg is released from the ovary, caused by the rupture of the ovarian follicle.​

However, if the pain is severe and lasts for a longer time, consult your doctor, as it may indicate another health condition.

4. Higher Libido

You may notice a natural increase in your intimate desire. This is because of hormonal increases (testosterone and estrogen) right before and during ovulation.

5. Breast Tenderness

You may experience breast or nipple tenderness or soreness. This is due to rising hormones, like progesterone and estrogen.

6. Softer, Higher, & More Open Cervix

The cervix (a small canal that connects your uterus and vagina) becomes softer, moves higher, and opens slightly due to high estrogen. This allows sperm to enter more easily to achieve fertilization.​

7. Mild Bloating

The abdomen feels puffy and full because of hormonal fluctuations. These are the signs that your body is getting ready for possible fertilization and implantation.​

8. Spotting/Light Bleeding

You may notice very light spotting or pinkish discharge. This is caused by the follicle bursting to release the egg.​

9. Heightened Sense of Smell or Taste

Hormonal changes can temporarily sharpen senses. This is possibly helping to subconsciously engage in intercourse at the peak of fertility.​

10. Clearer or Brighter/Glowing Skin

The increase in estrogen can bring about a “glowing” complexion. However, it can sometimes cause small breakouts as another physical sign of ovulation.

Note: Not every woman is different; not all of them will experience the same symptoms. If you are trying to conceive and want to know the best methods, consult your doctor.

Read Also: Did You Know these Causes of Menstrual Disorders

Other Methods of Knowing When You are Ovulating

1. Calendar Method

This method predicts ovulation by analyzing the past 6 months of menstrual cycles to determine when they’re fertile.

2. Ovulation Predictor Kit (OPK)

Detects the increase in luteinizing hormone (LH) in urine, which generally occurs 24-36 hours before ovulation.

Read Also: Ovarian Cysts: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Why Should You Know When You’re Ovulating?

You should know your ovulation periods for the following benefits:

• Fertility tracking
• For natural birth control
• Knowing your hormonal health
• Managing irregular periods
• Diagnosing female reproductive issues

What If You’re Not Experiencing These Signs?

No two women are the same; that’s why you may not experience all of these symptoms. But if you’re not experiencing any signs at all, then it may indicate:

• Stress
• Unexplained weight changes
• Thyroid issues
• Hormonal imbalance
• Birth control usage
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

You need to consult your gynecologist for a detailed diagnosis to guide the right treatment.

Conclusion

It's crucial to keep in mind not to push your body too hard to increase pregnancy chances. As this can cause stress, triggering hormonal imbalances that can disrupt ovulation and lower fertility.

Approaching conception with the right tips and calmness is the key

• Follow these tips to conceive naturally:
• Healthy body weight
• Stress management
• Take folic acid as prescribed
• Healthy diet
• Track your ovulation
• Have intercourse often to conceive
• Stop smoking
• Cut caffeine
• Avoid alcohol

If you are still facing issues conceiving, then consult your doctor at Surya Hospitals.

FAQ’s

Q1: When is the egg released from the ovary?
A: The egg is released from the ovary during ovulation, generally around day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle. This release is triggered by an increase in luteinizing hormone.​

Q2: What are the signs of bad egg quality?
A: Signs of bad egg quality could be:

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Difficulty conceiving
• Recurrent miscarriages
• Poor response to fertility treatments
• Chromosomal abnormalities

Q3: What is the ovulation period?
A: The ovulation period is the time when an egg is released from the ovary. The egg is now available for fertilization, usually lasting 12 to 24 hours.