You can know when you're ovulating by observing several physical signs and using tracking methods: Common signs and symptoms of ovulation:
- Changes in cervical mucus: It becomes clearer, thinner, and slippery, similar to raw egg whites, indicating fertility
- Mild lower abdominal pain or cramps on one side (mittelschmerz), which can last from minutes to a couple of days
- Slight rise in basal body temperature (BBT) by about 0.4 to 0.5°F after ovulation; tracking BBT daily first thing in the morning can help identify this pattern over time
- Increased libido a few days before ovulation, possibly due to hormone changes
- Breast tenderness or soreness due to hormonal fluctuations
- Light spotting or spotting between periods sometimes occurs during ovulation
- Bloating and fluid retention around ovulation time
- Changes in the cervix: it becomes higher, softer, and more open during ovulation, though this can be harder to detect
Methods to determine ovulation:
- Chart your menstrual cycle to predict ovulation days, typically around day 14 in a 28-day cycle but varies per individual
- Track basal body temperature daily to detect the slight rise after ovulation
- Use ovulation predictor kits that detect luteinizing hormone (LH) surge in urine, indicating ovulation is likely within 24-36 hours
- Monitor cervical mucus changes regularly
- Pay attention to physical symptoms like mild cramps, breast tenderness, and libido changes
Since ovulation symptoms vary widely, combining these methods improves accuracy in knowing when you are ovulating
