Signs of Ovulation

• Rise in Basal Body Temperature: Typically increases by 1/2 to 1 degree, measured with a thermometer.
• Higher Levels of Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Detectable with a home ovulation kit.
• Cervical Mucus Changes: Vaginal discharge may become clearer, thinner, and stretchy, resembling raw egg whites.
• Breast Tenderness
• Bloating
• Light Spotting
• Slight Pain or Cramping on One Side

Pregnancy Tips

Know When You Ovulate: Ovulation generally occurs 14 days before your next period, but this can vary. To better understand your ovulation cycle, chart your basal body temperature and observe cervical mucus changes. Use an ovulation predictor kit (OPK), ovulation tracking bracelet, or lab tests to monitor hormonal changes before ovulation.

Have Sex Often: Your chances of getting pregnant are highest 1 to 2 days before ovulation. Since cycles can vary and sperm can live up to 5 days in the female body, have sex frequently starting 3 days before ovulation and continue for 2 to 3 days after.

Lie Low After Sex? While it has been suggested to stay in bed for at least 15 minutes after sex to help sperm reach the egg, recent studies show no evidence supporting this claim.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as both underweight and overweight conditions can disrupt ovulation and hormone production. Aim for a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9. Moderate exercise is beneficial, but avoid strenuous activities that could affect your menstrual cycle.

De-stress: Stress can impact your ability to conceive. Practices such as yoga, meditation, and walking can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Manage Medical Conditions: Ensure any medical conditions, like diabetes, asthma, or epilepsy, are well-controlled. Consult your doctor about the medications you’re taking, as some may affect fertility.

His Health Matters, Too: Fertility issues are not just a woman’s concern. Over 33% of fertility problems involve only the man, and another 33% involve both partners. Men can improve reproductive health by quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, eating healthily, and managing stress.

Trying for a Boy or a Girl? There are various theories about influencing your baby’s gender by timing intercourse or using specific positions, but these methods are not guaranteed. The natural odds remain 50-50 unless using a sperm-sorting technique followed by artificial insemination.