If you’re trying to understand when you’re most likely to get pregnant, it can feel confusing or even overwhelming. Many women want to better understand their fertility to either prevent pregnancy or increase their chances of conceiving.
You’re not alone in feeling uncertain about the right timing, and it’s okay to have questions. Understanding your body and how it works can help you feel more in control of your reproductive health.
What Happens During Ovulation?
Ovulation is when one of your ovaries releases an egg, which can be fertilized for about 12-24 hours. The days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation itself are when you’re most likely to conceive.
Ovulation is the most likely time of your cycle when you can get pregnant, typically occurring about midway through your menstrual cycle. According to the Mayo Clinic, ovulation usually happens around day 14 of a 28-day cycle, but this can vary from woman to woman.
How Do I Know if I’m Ovulating?
If you’re unsure of when you’re ovulating or have an irregular cycle, tracking your symptoms can help. Signs of ovulation can include:
- Changes in vaginal discharge: Right before ovulation, you might notice an increase in thin, clear, slippery fluid. After ovulation, there’s usually less fluid, and it becomes thicker.
- Changes in body temperature: Your body’s resting temperature, called basal body temperature, slightly increases during ovulation. To track it, use a special basal thermometer each morning before getting out of bed. Write down your readings and look for a pattern—fertility is usually highest during the 2 to 3 days when your temperature rises.
There are also over-the-counter ovulation tests available, which can provide more precise information.
Get Pregnancy Support Services
At Care Net LVNM, we understand that navigating fertility questions can be stressful. Whether you’re concerned about an unexpected pregnancy or planning to grow your family, we offer free pregnancy services, including pregnancy testing in a confidential, compassionate setting, and ultrasound referrals.
Our team is here to support you every step of the way, providing information and care tailored to your unique situation.
Reach out today to learn more about how we can help you feel informed and empowered.