Ovulation Signs: When Am I Ovulating?
A woman’s body gives off several signals that she is about
to ovulate. Recognizing these signals can greatly enhance your
chances of getting pregnant:
- Elevated body temperature
A woman’s body’s temperature typically rises slightly
during ovulation. Women who want to track their basal temperature
can do so with a basal thermometer. It is a thermometer that
can take a more sensitive reading. It is recommended that the
temperature be taken first thing in the morning. It should be
noted, however, that other factors such as illness or fatigue
can cause changes to your body temperature.
- Changes in vaginal discharge
Right after a period most women produce little vaginal discharge.
A few days later a sticky or tacky discharge is detected. Just
before ovulation, however, cervical mucus changes in consistency
and color. It becomes clear and slippery and has the consistency
of egg whites. At this stage it should also be pretty stretchy.
Women also have more discharge during ovulation. This secretion
is to aid the sperm in its swim. Once ovulation is completed
the mucus tends to become thicker and less tends to be secreted.
Other factors, however, can influence vaginal secretions such
as sexual excitement or infections.
- Hormone surge
There is a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) right before ovulation.
An ovulation predictor kit can be purchased at a local drug
store. These kits measure a surge in LH that occurs just prior
to ovulation.
- Tender Breasts and nipples
The breasts and the nipples can be very tender to the touch.
- Cramps
Some women complain of having cramping around the time of ovulation.
This lower abdominal discomfort is known as Mittelschmerz. It
is derived from a German word for mid-cycle pain. This pain
can be an aching sensation or takes form as a sharp pain.
- Change is cervix position
The cervix will change in position and firmness during ovulation.
- Increase in sex drive
Some women feel an increase in sex drive around the time that
they are ovulating.
- Bloating
Many women have bloating in the lower abdomen during ovulation.
- Heightened senses
Some women say that they feel they have a heightened sense of
smell and taste when they are ovulating.
Many of the symptoms associated with ovulation similar to those
women experience during early pregnancy.
