When does ovulation occur in women during the cycle. Ovulation: what is it and how to calculate it. Ovulation, conception and gender of the baby

Every woman who has firmly decided to become a mother is interested in how to get pregnant faster. After all, not everyone succeeds in doing it the first time. You can significantly increase your chances by learning when

Normally, this happens once per menstrual cycle. However, there are cases when there is no ovulation at all, or two of them happen at once. The latter situation can be triggered by taking hormones, violent sexual intercourse, or strong feelings. This is also normal if it happens sometimes. However, in some diseases, ovulation may not occur at all, and this is already a pathology that requires treatment.

There are several days per cycle when you can get pregnant. This is the period when ovulation occurs, and the rest of the time the probability is very small. The fact is that the egg after entering the fallopian tube from the ovary lives no more than a day, and sometimes several hours.

Spermatozoa can live for several days. Ideally, they should already be in the fallopian tube before the egg is released. Therefore, it is so important to know when ovulation occurs, and it is better to know in advance.

The release of the egg occurs 14 days before menstruation. The less regular the cycle, the more difficult it is to determine this time. However, sensations during ovulation can help with this:

• pain in the ovarian region, this phenomenon is called;

• vaginal discharge like egg white;

• increased sexual desire;

• dip in basal temperature chart.

In addition, there are more accurate methods for determining the time of release of the egg. The most convenient and modern is sold in a pharmacy. It determines the elevated level in the urine.

It is he who stimulates ovulation. Therefore, a positive test indicates that the release of the egg will occur in a day or two. During this period, attention should be paid to intimate relationships.

You need to start doing tests 17 days before your period. You need to perform them at the same time every day, before that, do not drink or urinate for 2 hours. If the cycle is irregular, then take the shortest of the last four for calculations. A positive result indicates early ovulation.

However, the problem is that the test detects a jump in LH. If there are health problems, then ovulation may not occur. Only regular ultrasounds during the cycle can confirm it accurately.

They allow you to track the maturation of the follicle, its compliance with the norm, and also fix the appearance of a corpus luteum in its place, which indicates that ovulation has occurred. Another ultrasound is done in order to determine the thickness of the endometrium during the period of the proposed implantation into it.

Statistics show that the probability of getting pregnant on the day of ovulation is about 33%, the day before it - 31%, and for two - 27%. If sex was for 3-4 days, then it is no more than 15%, for 5 days - 10%. The rest of the time, the chance of getting pregnant is very small.

Basal body temperature is measured every morning after waking up with a conventional thermometer in the rectum. The results are noted on the chart, the failure of which indicates that ovulation has occurred. This is its disadvantage, to which not very high accuracy is added. Since many factors influence the basal temperature.

The point is also that during ovulation, the consistency of mucus in the cervical canal changes. At this time, it promotes the penetration of sperm into the uterus. That is why specific vaginal discharge appears.

Thus, knowing when ovulation occurs and with a partner during this period significantly increases the likelihood of conceiving a child. However, it still does not exceed 33%. Your own feelings and modern methods will help determine the time of release of the egg.

The female body is a complex system, which is characterized by various processes. One of these is ovulation, during which the chance of getting pregnant increases significantly. If a couple wants to have a child, they should learn to determine this period and plan for intimacy for it. How not to miss the right time to conceive and can you recognize the signs?

What is ovulation

This is the name of the stage of the menstrual cycle, which occurs approximately on the 14th day and lasts only 24-48 hours. What is ovulation day? Ovulation - what is it? This is the time it takes for the egg to leave the ovary and travel through the fallopian tube to the uterus. Conception occurs if a spermatozoon is encountered on its way, an embryo begins to form, if not, similar processes of preparation for pregnancy are launched again and again.

The process that is not always described begins in the middle of the cycle - there are deviations that are considered the norm. The frequency, duration of the phases depends on the activity of the hormones of the pituitary gland, ovary. In a healthy woman, the established process stops after the onset of pregnancy or the deterioration of menstrual function. Favorable moments for conception - before the release of the egg from the ovary or immediately after.

When does ovulation occur

Most women do not notice when ovulation occurs, because the process is not accompanied by obvious signs. It is believed that with a 28-day menstrual cycle, the egg matures on the 14th day, but for many it comes out of the ovary a little earlier or later, depending on many factors. The life cycle of an egg is no more than 24 hours. If she does not fertilize during this time, she quickly dies.

How does ovulation happen?

At the first stage of the menstrual cycle, the follicle matures, inside which the egg is located. While the latter is inside, the onset of pregnancy is excluded. The period of development of an egg can vary from 8 to 30 days, on average - about 14 days. By the middle of the menstrual cycle, under the influence of luteinizing hormone, the follicle bursts and frees the female germ cell. The process of ovulation takes a moment, the release of the egg can occur at any time of the day. All subsequent processes after this are called the ovulatory period.

What happens after

Once in the abdominal cavity, the egg lives no more than 24 hours. If a few days before her release or during her promotion there was a full-fledged sexual intercourse, there is a great chance of conception. When the egg remains unfertilized, the level of sex hormones in the body decreases, resulting in the destruction of the lining of the uterus. After ovulation, the ovulatory cycle lasts 36-48 hours. Then, after 2 weeks, the menstrual flow begins, and by this time a new egg begins to mature in the ovaries.

Signs of ovulation

What are Fertility Days? This is the name given to the few days before the release of the egg and the day of release, when a woman can become pregnant. Favorable time can be found out, calculated or guessed about its onset by certain signs. Symptoms of ovulation are subjective and vary from woman to woman. Some of them:

1. Increased sexual desire during fertility days. So nature took care not to interrupt the human race.
2. Sudden mood swings, a tearful state, a change in taste preferences associated with hormonal failure.
3. Increase in basal body temperature. To notice changes, you need to keep a graph and monitor the temperature daily. A few days before the described process and some time after it, an increase of several tenths of a degree becomes noticeable.
4. Soreness of the mammary glands. The symptom appears due to the activity of hormones that prepare the body for a potential pregnancy, but is not an accurate indicator (other than that, it appears just before the onset of menstruation).
5. Saliva crystallization. The symptom is revealed in the presence of a special microscope. If you look into it, you can see that before ovulation, saliva resembles frost on glass.

Pain during ovulation

During the release of the egg, women may feel slight discomfort, experience mild pain in the lower abdomen. Some people learn about a favorable time by pulling, aching pains on the side where the egg comes out. The discomfort can last from a few minutes to 2 days. A change in the hormonal background leads to breast swelling, increased flatulence. Note - if the stomach hurts a lot during ovulation, the subjective sign is not necessarily associated with the advancement of the egg.

Discharge before ovulation

Each phase of the cycle is characterized by its own consistency of the cervical fluid. When there is no possibility of fertilization, it may be absent or be sticky, thick. What is the discharge during ovulation? They become more noticeable, viscous, like egg white. Sometimes bleeding is possible. On examination, the gynecologist notes changes in the cervix - it opens slightly more, becomes more loose.

How to calculate the day of ovulation

The above symptoms are subjective - their presence often indicates the fact of the release of the egg. For those who do not plan pregnancy, this method is not suitable. Since different women have a huge difference in the onset of the described process, it is difficult to guess the exact timing. How to calculate ovulation for conception? There are proven methods: using tests, basal temperature charting, ultrasound, blood tests.

ovulation test

If you do not trust the sensations, then how to check ovulation? Use tests. With a constant cycle, they should be applied daily one to two weeks before the expected date. Before testing, it is desirable to refrain from urinating for at least 4 hours, from excessive fluid intake. If possible, it is desirable to use the method at a certain time of the day. The simplest type of tests is paper. To obtain the results, it is necessary to collect urine in a clean dish, lower the test there, wait 5-10 minutes. If the test shows 2 bright, pronounced stripes, the girl is ready to conceive.

body temperature during ovulation

A simple, free and effective method to detect ovulation and determine its duration. To get the right picture, it is necessary to take measurements of basal temperature every day for several months. In the first half of the cycle, the indicators are kept at the level of 36.2-36.5 degrees, in the middle there is a sharp jump. Body temperature during ovulation is 36.8-37 degrees, decreases after the release of the egg. According to these indicators, it is very easy to calculate the onset of a favorable moment.

ultrasound for ovulation

It is not always possible to feel the onset of a favorable period - during the process, a woman can look great, be in good health. If you can’t find out the date of release of the egg on your own, you should do an ultrasound. Ultrasound to determine ovulation is a reliable method used in pregnancy planning. The examination will help to observe the increase in the follicle, the movements of a mature egg, the growth of the endometrium in the uterus, and to identify the period suitable for conception.

How to stimulate ovulation at home

Well, when the egg matures, the body prepares every month for the likelihood of conception, menstruation regularly occurs. Alas, some do not ovulate for a long time, and it has to be stimulated. Methods:

1. Induction by drug hormones. After the examinations, the doctor prescribes medications, draws up a calendar (schedule) for taking them, taking tests. As a rule, Clostilbegit is prescribed to stimulate the maturation of the egg and the appearance of the ovulation period. When the follicle matures, a simultaneous intake of Pregnil is prescribed.
2. Stimulation by folk methods. Decoctions of the upland uterus, rose petals, red brush, sage are recommended. In addition, traditional medicine suggests drinking aloe, quince juices, and using mummy.

Video: how to determine ovulation

The main task of a woman on Earth is considered to be procreation. Of course, both a woman and a man are involved in the process of conception, but whether the representative of the weaker sex endures pregnancy, whether she gives birth to a healthy child depends only on herself. Ovulation is necessary for fertilization to occur. Ovulation and conception are two interrelated states, because in the absence of ovulation, fertilization is impossible. Signs of ovulation are almost always noticed by a woman (consciously or not), so their knowledge is necessary not only to plan a long-awaited pregnancy, but also to prevent an unwanted one.

The menstrual cycle and its phases

To define the term "ovulation" you should understand the concept of "menstrual cycle".

During the menstrual cycle, functional and structural transformations consistently occur in the female body, which affect not only the reproductive system, but also the rest (nervous, endocrine, and others).

The formation of the menstrual cycle, which is physiological for the female body, begins during puberty. The first menstruation or menarche occurs at the age of 12 - 14 years of the girl and draws a line under the first period of puberty. The menstrual cycle is finally established in a year and a half and is characterized by the regularity of menstrual bleeding and a relatively stable duration. During the specified time (1 - 1.5 years), the cycles of a teenage girl are anovulatory, that is, there is no ovulation, and the cycles themselves consist of two phases: follicular and luteal. Anovulation during the formation of the cycle is considered an absolutely normal phenomenon and is associated with insufficient production of hormones necessary for the completion of ovulation. By about the age of 16, the menstrual cycle acquires its individual characteristics, which persist throughout life and regular ovulation appears.

Physiology of the menstrual cycle

The average duration of the menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days. The duration of menstrual bleeding is 3-7 days. Most women have a total cycle length of 28 days (75% of the population).

It is customary to divide the menstrual cycle into two phases, the boundary between which is ovulation (in some sources, a separate ovulatory phase is distinguished). All periodically occurring and repeating approximately every month changes in a woman's body, in particular in the reproductive system, are aimed at ensuring full ovulation. If this process does not occur, the cycle is called anovulatory, and the woman, accordingly, is infertile.

Phases of the "female" cycle:

First phase

In the first phase (another name is follicular), the production of follicle-stimulating hormone begins in the pituitary gland, under the influence of which the process of proliferation (maturation) of follicles or folliculogenesis starts in the ovaries. At the same time, for one month in the ovary (sometimes in the right, then in the left), about 10-15 follicles begin active growth, which become proliferating or maturing. The maturing follicles, in turn, synthesize estrogens, which are necessary for the final completion of the process of maturation of the dominant follicle, that is, they are temporary glands. Under the influence of estrogens, the main (dominant) follicle forms a cavity around itself, which is filled with follicular fluid and where the egg “ripens”. As the dominant follicle grows and a cavity forms around it (now called the Graaffian vesicle), follicle-stimulating hormone and estrogens accumulate in the follicular fluid. As soon as the process of maturation of the egg is completed, the dominant follicle sends a signal to the pituitary gland, and it stops the production of FSH, as a result of which the Graafian vesicle bursts and a mature full-fledged egg is released into the “light”.

Second phase

So what is ovulation? The second phase (conditionally) is called ovulatory, that is, the period when the Graafian vesicle ruptures and the egg appears in free space (in this case, in the abdominal cavity, more often on the surface of the ovary). Ovulation is the process of the immediate release of an egg from the ovary. The rupture of the main follicle proceeds under the "banner" of luteinizing hormone, which begins to be secreted by the pituitary gland after a signal is given to it by the follicle itself.

Third phase

This phase is called the luteal phase, as it proceeds with the participation of luteinizing hormone. As soon as the follicle burst and “released” the egg, the corpus luteum begins to form from the granulosa cells of the Graafian vesicle. In the process of division of granulosa cells and the formation of the corpus luteum, progesterone begins to be synthesized along with the LH-releasing pituitary gland. The corpus luteum and progesterone production are designed to preserve the egg in case of fertilization, ensure its implantation in the uterine wall and maintain pregnancy until the placenta is formed. The formation of the placenta is completed by about 16 weeks of gestation and one of its functions is the synthesis of progesterone. So, if fertilization has taken place, then the corpus luteum is called the corpus luteum of pregnancy, and if the egg does not meet with the sperm, then the corpus luteum undergoes reverse changes (involution) by the end of the cycle and disappears. In this case, it is called the corpus luteum of menstruation.

All the described changes relate only to the ovaries and are therefore called the ovarian cycle.

uterine cycle

Speaking about the physiology of the menstrual cycle and the ovulation cycle, it should be noted the structural changes that occur in the uterus under the influence of certain hormones:

Desquamation phase

The first day of the menstrual cycle is considered to be the first day of menstruation. Menstruation is the rejection of the overgrown functional layer of the uterine mucosa, which was ready to accept (implant) a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not happen, then desquamation of the uterine mucosa occurs along with blood - menstrual bleeding.

Regeneration phase

It follows the desquamation phase and is accompanied by the restoration of the functional layer with the help of a reserve epithelium. This phase begins even during bleeding (the epithelium is simultaneously rejected and restored) and ends on the 6th day of the cycle.

Proliferation phase

It is characterized by the growth of the stroma and glands and coincides in time with the follicular phase. With a 28-day cycle, it lasts up to 14 days and ends by the time the follicle matures and is ready to burst.

Secretion phase

The secretory phase corresponds to the corpus luteum phase. At this stage, there is a thickening and loosening of the functional layer of the uterine mucosa, which is necessary for the successful introduction of a fertilized egg into its thickness (implantation).

Signs of ovulation

Knowing the signs of ovulation will help determine the day of ovulation, for which you need to treat your body with great attention. Of course, ovulation can not always be suspected, because its manifestations are very subjective and sometimes go unnoticed by a woman. But the changes in the hormonal background that occur every month allow you to “calculate” and remember the sensations during ovulation and compare them with the new ones.

Subjective signs

The subjective signs of ovulation include those that the woman herself feels and that only she can tell about. Another name for subjective signs is sensations:

Stomach ache

One of the first signs of ovulation is pain in the lower abdomen. On the eve of the rupture of the follicle, a woman may feel, but not necessarily, a slight tingling in the lower abdomen, more often on the right or left. This indicates the most enlarged and tense dominant follicle, which is about to burst. After its rupture, a small wound, a few millimeters in size, remains on the ovarian membrane, which also worries the woman. This is manifested by minor aching or pulling pains or discomfort in the lower abdomen. Such sensations disappear after a couple of days, but if the pain has not gone away or is so acute that it disrupts the usual way of life, you should consult a doctor (ovarian apoplexy is possible).

Mammary gland

Perhaps the appearance of soreness or hypersensitivity in the mammary glands, which is associated with hormonal changes. The production of FSH stops and the synthesis of LH begins, which is reflected in the chest. She is swollen and rough and very sensitive to touch.

Libido

Another characteristic subjective sign of approaching and onset ovulation is an increase in libido (sexual desire), which is also due to hormonal changes. It is so predetermined by nature that it ensures the continuation of the family - once the egg is ready for fertilization, then it is necessary to increase sexual desire to increase the likelihood of sexual contact and subsequent pregnancy.

Exacerbation of sensations

On the eve and during the period of ovulation, a woman notes an exacerbation of all sensations (increased sensitivity to smells, changes in color perception and taste), which is also explained by hormonal changes. Emotional lability and a sudden change of mood (from irritability to fun, from tears to laughter) are not ruled out.

Objective signs

Objective signs (symptoms of ovulation) are those that are seen by the examining person, for example, a doctor:

Cervix

During a gynecological examination in the ovulatory phase, the doctor may note that the cervix softened somewhat, the cervical canal opened slightly, and the cervix itself rose up.

Edema

Swelling of the extremities, more often of the legs, indicates a change in FSH production to LH production and is visible not only to the woman herself, but also to her relatives and the doctor.

Allocations

During ovulation, the nature of the vaginal discharge also changes. If in the first phase of the cycle a woman does not notice spots on her underwear, which is associated with a thick plug that clogs the cervical canal and prevents infectious agents from entering the uterine cavity, then the discharge changes in the ovulatory stage. The mucus in the cervical canal liquefies and becomes viscous and viscous, which is necessary to facilitate the penetration of spermatozoa into the uterine cavity. In appearance, cervical mucus resembles egg white, stretches up to 7-10 cm and leaves noticeable stains on linen.

Admixture of blood in secretions

Another of the characteristic objective, but optional signs of ovulation. Blood in the secretions appears in very small quantities, so a woman may not notice this symptom. One or two drops of blood enter the fallopian tube, then into the uterus and into the cervical canal after the rupture of the dominant follicle. Rupture of the follicle is always accompanied by damage to the ovarian membrane and the release of a small amount of blood into the abdominal cavity.

Basal temperature

This symptom can only be detected by a woman who regularly keeps a schedule of basal temperature. On the eve of ovulation, there is a slight (0.1 - 0.2 degrees) drop in temperature, and during the rupture of the follicle and after, the temperature rises and remains above 37 degrees.

Ultrasound data

An increase in the size of the dominant follicle and its subsequent rupture are reliably determined using ultrasound.

After ovulation

Some women, especially those who use the calendar method of contraception, are interested in symptoms after ovulation has taken place. Thus, women calculate "safe" days in relation to unwanted pregnancy. These signs are very uncharacteristic and may coincide with early symptoms of pregnancy:

Vaginal discharge

As soon as the egg is released from the main follicle and died (its life expectancy is 24, maximum 48 hours), the discharge from the genital tract also changes. Vaginal leucorrhoea loses its transparency, becomes milky, possibly interspersed with small lumps, sticky and does not stretch well (see).

pain

Within one to two days after the completion of ovulation, discomfort and minor pain in the lower abdomen disappear.

Libido

Sexual desire also gradually fades away, since now it makes no sense for sperm to meet with the egg, it has already died.

Basal temperature

If at the moment of rupture of the Graafian vesicle, the basal temperature is significantly higher than 37 degrees, then after ovulation it decreases by several tenths of a degree, although it remains above 37 degrees. This sign is unreliable, since even with the conception that has occurred, the basal temperature will be above the 37-degree mark. The only difference is that by the end of the second phase (before the start of menstruation), the temperature will drop to 37 degrees and below.

Acne

On the eve and at the time of ovulation, hormonal changes occur in the body, which affects the condition of the skin of the face - acne appears. As soon as ovulation is over, the rash gradually disappears.

Ultrasound data

An ultrasound scan allows you to reveal a dominant follicle that has collapsed due to a rupture, a small amount of fluid in the retrouterine space, and a later-forming corpus luteum. Ultrasound data are most indicative in the case of dynamic research (maturing of follicles, determination of the dominant follicle and its subsequent rupture).

Signs of conception

Before talking about the signs of pregnancy after ovulation, it is worth understanding the terms “fertilization” and “conception”. Fertilization, that is, the meeting of the egg with the sperm, occurs in the fallopian tube, from where the fertilized egg is sent to the uterus. In the uterine cavity, the fertilized egg chooses the most convenient place and attaches to the uterine wall, that is, it is implanted. After implantation has occurred, a close relationship is established between the mother's organism and the zygote (future embryo), which is supported by a change in the hormonal level. The process of securely fixing the zygote in the uterine cavity is called conception. That is, if fertilization has taken place, but implantation has not yet occurred, this is not called pregnancy, and some sources indicate such a term as “biological pregnancy”. Until the zygote is securely entrenched in the thickness of the endometrium, it can be expelled from the uterus at the same time as menstrual flow, which is called a very early miscarriage or termination of a biological pregnancy.

It is very difficult to determine the signs of conception, especially for an inexperienced woman, and appear approximately 10 to 14 days after ovulation:

Basal temperature

With a possible pregnancy, the basal temperature remains at a high level, about 37.5 degrees and does not decrease before the expected menstruation.

Implant retraction

If in the second phase of the cycle after ovulation, the basal temperature remains elevated (more than 37) almost until the onset of menstruation, then at the time of the introduction of the zygote into the uterine mucosa, it slightly decreases, which is called implantation retraction. Such a drop is characterized by a mark below 37 degrees, and the next day a sharp jump in temperature (more than 37 and higher than it was after ovulation).

implantation bleeding

When a fertilized egg tries to settle in the thickness of the uterine mucosa, it somewhat destroys it and damages nearby small vessels. Therefore, the implantation process, but not necessarily, is accompanied by small bleeding, which can be seen in the form of pinkish spots on the linen, or one or two drops of blood.

Change in well-being

From the moment of implantation, there is a shift in the hormonal background, which is manifested by lethargy, apathy, possibly irritability and tearfulness, increased appetite, changes in taste and olfactory sensations. Also, in the early stages of pregnancy, a slightly elevated body temperature can be noted, which is associated with the influence of hormones (progesterone) on the thermoregulation center. This phenomenon is absolutely normal for pregnancy and is aimed at suppressing the immunity of the mother's body and preventing miscarriage. Many women take a rise in temperature and a deterioration in well-being as the first signs of SARS.

Discomfort in the lower abdomen

Several unpleasant sensations or even cramps in the lower abdomen for one, maximum two days are also associated with the implantation of the zygote and are absolutely physiological.

Mammary gland

There is increased sensitivity, swelling and soreness in the mammary glands after the completion of ovulation. A slight increase in these symptoms indicates the possibility of conception.

Delayed menstruation

If menstruation has not begun, it's time to take a pregnancy test and make sure you're right.

When does ovulation occur and how long does it last

All women are interested in when ovulation occurs, because this is important for calculating favorable days for conception or for preventing unwanted pregnancy. As already mentioned, the ovulatory period is the time that lasts from the moment of rupture of the main follicle to the entry of a full-fledged egg into the fallopian tube, where it has every chance of being fertilized.

It is impossible to determine the exact duration of the ovulatory period, due to the fact that even in a particular woman it can change in each cycle (lengthen or shorten). On average, the entire process takes 16-32 hours. It is the process, not the viability of the egg. But with the term of life of the released "free" egg, it is easier, and this time is 12 - 48 hours.

But if the life span of the egg is short enough, then spermatozoa, on the contrary, retain their activity for up to 7 days. That is, if sexual intercourse took place on the eve of ovulation (a day or two), then it is quite possible that a “fresh” egg is fertilized by spermatozoa that “waited” for it in the tube and did not lose their activity at all. It is on this fact that the calendar method of protection is based, that is, the calculation of dangerous days (3 days before ovulation and 3 days after).

When it comes

To determine the days of ovulation, but approximately, a simple calculation will help. Ovulation occurs at the end of the first phase of the cycle (follicular). To know on what day a certain woman ovulates, she needs to know the length of her cycle (we are talking about regular cycles).

The duration of the follicular phase is different for everyone and ranges from 10 to 18 days. But the duration of the second phase is always the same for all women and corresponds to 14 days. To determine ovulation, it is enough to subtract 14 days from the entire length of the menstrual cycle. As a result, it turns out that if the cycle lasts 28 days (minus 14), we get the 14th day of the cycle, which will mean the approximate day the egg is released from the follicle.

Or the cycle lasts 32 days, minus 14 - we get the approximate day 18 of the cycle - the day of ovulation. Why, speaking of such a simple calculation, is it called approximate? Because the menstrual cycle, and especially the ongoing ovulation, are very sensitive processes and depend on many factors. For example, ovulation may occur prematurely (early) or late (late).

The onset of early rupture of the follicle and the release of the egg can be triggered by the following factors:

• significant stress;
• weight lifting;
• significant sports loads;
• frequent intercourse;
• harmful production;
• banal cold;
• change in climate, lifestyle or diet;
• excessive smoking or drinking alcohol;
• sleep disturbance;
• failure in the hormonal background;
• medication.

They say about late ovulation if it happens (with a 28-day cycle) on the 18th - 20th day. The reasons for this process are the same as the factors that provoke the early rupture of the main follicle.

How to calculate ovulation

How to calculate ovulation, you need to know all women, especially those who have long and unsuccessfully tried to get pregnant. For this purpose, there are several developed methods for determining ovulation. All methods can be conditionally divided into "biological" and "official", that is, laboratory-instrumental.

calendar method

• cycle duration (it should not be too short, for example, 21 days and not very long, 35 days) - the optimal duration is 28 - 30 days;
• regularity - ideally, menstruation should come "to the day", but a deviation of +/- 2 days is allowed;
• the nature of menstrual flow - menstruation should be moderate, without clots and no more than 5-6 days, and the nature of the discharge should not change from cycle to cycle.

We subtract 14 from the length of the cycle (the length of the luteal phase) and conventionally take ovulation as the day (it can shift). We mark the calculated date on the calendar and add 2 days to 2 days after - these days are also considered favorable for fertilization.

Basal temperature

A more reliable method is the method of calculating ovulation according to the basal temperature chart. To calculate favorable days for conception, the following conditions must be met:

• measurement of basal, that is, in the rectum, temperature for at least three months;
• scheduling (this item is required) basal temperature;
• measurements should be taken in the morning, after a night's sleep, at the same time and without getting out of bed.

According to the drawn up schedule, we mark the first phase of the cycle, during which the temperature will stay below 37 degrees, then a pre-ovulatory decrease during the day (by 0.1 - 0.2 degrees), a sharp jump in temperature (by 0.4 - 0.5 degrees) and the subsequent stay of the temperature in the mode above 37 degrees (second phase). A sharp jump will be considered the day the egg leaves the Graafian vesicle. We mark this day on the calendar and also do not forget about 2 days before 2 days after.

Ovulation Tests

Special tests for detecting the ovulatory process can be easily bought at any pharmacy (see). The action of the tests is based on the detection of a high level of luteinizing hormone in any biological fluid (blood, urine or saliva). A positive test indicates the release of a mature egg from the ovary and its readiness for conception.

Gynecological examination

When conducting a gynecological examination, the doctor can reliably identify signs of ovulation using functional diagnostic tests. The first is a method for determining the extensibility of cervical mucus. The forceps capture mucus from the external pharynx of the neck, and then its branches are bred. If the mucus is viscous and the dilution of the branches reaches 10 cm or more, this is considered one of the symptoms of ovulation. The second is the “pupil method”. The increasing mucus in the cervical canal stretches it, including the external pharynx, and it becomes ajar and round, like a pupil. If the external pharynx is narrowed and there is practically no mucus in it (“dry” neck), then this indicates the absence of ovulation (it has already passed).

Ultrasound - measurement of the follicle

This method allows you to establish with a 100% guarantee whether ovulation has occurred or not. In addition, with the help of ultrasound folliculometry, you can create your own menstrual cycle schedule and ovulation calendar and find out about its approach or completion. Typical ultrasound signs of impending ovulation:

• the growth of the main follicle plus the expansion of the cervical canal;
• determination of the main follicle ready to burst;
• control of the corpus luteum, which is formed at the site of the burst follicle, the identification of fluid in the retrouterine space, which indicates that ovulation has occurred.

Hormonal method

This method is based on determining the amount of estrogen and progesterone in the blood. The latter begins to stand out in the second phase of the cycle, when the formed corpus luteum begins to function. Approximately 7 days after the release of the egg from the ovary, progesterone in the blood rises, which confirms that ovulation has taken place. And the day before ovulation and on her day, the level of estrogen decreases significantly. The method is time-consuming, requires repeated blood donations and finances.

Lack of ovulation

If there is no ovulation, this phenomenon is called anovulation. It is clear that in the absence of ovulation, pregnancy becomes impossible. It should be noted that a healthy woman of childbearing age has up to two to three anovulatory cycles per year, which is considered normal. But if there is no ovulation all the time, then they talk about chronic anovulation and you should look for the causes of this condition, since the woman is diagnosed with "Infertility". Causes of chronic anovulation include:

• thyroid disease;
• overweight or obesity;
• polycystic ovary disease;
• diabetes;
• lack of weight;
• hyperprolactinemia;
• ovarian dysfunction;
• chronic inflammation of the ovaries;
• endometriosis of the ovaries and uterus (hormonal imbalance in general);
• constant stress;
• excessive physical activity (sports, household);
• harmful working conditions;
• pathology of the adrenal glands;
• tumors of the pituitary or hypothalamus and other pathologies.

The following factors can lead to temporary (transient) anovulation:

• pregnancy, which is natural, no menstrual cycle, no ovulation;
• breastfeeding (more often against the background of lactation, menstruation is absent, but it may be, but the cycle is usually anovulatory);
• premenopause (there is a fading of ovarian function, so the cycles will be anovulatory rather than ovulatory);
• taking contraceptive pills;
• stress;
• adherence to a specific diet for weight loss;
• an increase in body weight or a sharp decrease in it;
• change of habitual environment;
• climate change;
• change in working conditions.

If there is no ovulation - what to do? First of all, you should consult a doctor who will determine what caused this condition, and how serious it is (chronic or temporary anovulation). If anovulation is temporary, the doctor will recommend improving nutrition, stopping worrying and avoiding stress, changing jobs (for example, those associated with night shifts to day shifts), and taking vitamins.

In the case of chronic anovulation, the gynecologist will definitely prescribe an additional examination:

• sex hormones (estrogens, progesterone, prolactin, testosterone, FSH and LH) and adrenal and thyroid hormones;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs;
• colposcopy (according to indications);
• hysteroscopy (according to indications);
• diagnostic laparoscopy.

Depending on the identified cause, appropriate treatment is also prescribed, the final stage of which is the stimulation of ovulation. Basically, clostilbegit or clomiphene is used to stimulate ovulation, usually in combination with gonadotropic hormones (Menopur, Gonal-F). Ovulation stimulation is carried out for three menstrual cycles, and if there is no effect, the stimulation cycle is repeated after three cycles.

Question answer

Yes, such online calendars are quite suitable for calculating ovulation days, but their efficiency reaches only 30%, which is based on the calendar method for determining ovulation.

Question:
With an irregular cycle, will there necessarily be chronic anovulation?

Yes, an irregular cycle is more likely to be anovulatory, although this is debatable. Even if the monthly "jump" every month, the onset of ovulation is possible, but, as a rule, not in the middle of the cycle, but at the beginning or at the end.

This method is unreliable and not scientifically confirmed, but there is a hypothesis that "female" spermatozoa, that is, those that contain the X chromosome, are more tenacious, but slower. Therefore, in order to give birth to a girl, it is necessary to have sexual intercourse two to three days before the expected ovulation. It is during this time that the slow X-spermatozoa will reach the released egg and fertilize it. If you have sexual intercourse at the peak of ovulation, then fast "male" spermatozoa will outstrip female ones and there will be a boy.

Again, the method is unreliable. Spermatozoa containing the Y chromosome or "male" are more brisk and mobile, but very sensitive to the acidic environment that is in the vagina, so sexual intercourse should take place on the day of ovulation, which must be confirmed by ultrasound. "Male" spermatozoa, despite their activity, die very quickly, but if coitus was on the day of ovulation, their death will not happen yet, and "male" spermatozoa will reach the egg faster than "female" ones and fertilize it.

Question:
I play professional sports. Could this be the cause of the lack of ovulation?

Of course. Professional sports loads are very significant, which not only leads to persistent anovulation, but also to malfunctions in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-ovarian system. Therefore, you have to choose, either professional sports and fame, or the birth of a child.

Every month, hormonal changes in the body of a healthy woman of childbearing age cause a mature egg to leave and exit into the cavity of the fallopian tubes, where it awaits fertilization. At this point, the probability of conception is highest. This must be remembered by both women planning and women who are protected using the calendar method.

Ovulation will help determine the “pupil effect”: when examined on a gynecological chair on the day of ovulation, the doctor can detect an accumulation of transparent mucus on the cervix in the cervical canal, similar to a human pupil.

Menstrual cycle

In order to calculate on which day it will happen, you need to start from the duration of the menstrual cycle. It starts on the first day of menstruation and lasts until the next menstruation. The duration of the cycle may vary. Some women with menstrual irregularities cannot determine exactly how many days their cycle is. In this case, it will be difficult to correctly calculate the day of the expected ovulation. The average cycle is 28 days. It can be both longer and shorter. The normal range is from 24 to 35 days.

Ovulation

During the menstrual cycle, hormones are produced that stimulate the maturation of the egg. When it reaches full maturity, it leaves the ovary and moves into the fallopian tubes. Ovulation occurs around the middle of the menstrual cycle, 10-16 days before the next period. That is, if your cycle is 28 days, then ovulation will occur between the 13th and 19th day of the menstrual cycle.

There are two types of tests to determine ovulation. Some of them determine the increase in luteinizing hormone in the urine, others fix ovulation by fern-like saliva crystallization.

The egg is viable for 24 hours after release. If fertilization does not occur, then she dies. In addition to theory, there are practical symptoms that characterize the onset of ovulation. Many women feel engorgement and pain in the mammary glands. There may be bleeding. Vaginal discharge changes its structure, becoming more viscous and transparent. These days, a woman's sexual desire usually rises - this is how nature gives a signal to procreate.

Abdominal pain may also be present. These sensations can be quite painful if a woman has in her pelvis. The whole complex of these symptoms is called ovulatory syndrome. It will also help to determine the graph of basal temperature. The method involves daily temperature measurement immediately after waking up before any physical activity. Temperature can be measured rectally and orally. On the day of ovulation, the temperature usually rises by 0.25-0.5 ° C.

Ovulation (from the Latin ovum - ‘egg’) is a physiological process during which an egg ready for fertilization is released into the abdominal cavity from the ovarian follicle. This process goes on in women from the moment of puberty to the onset of menopause, interrupted only during pregnancy. Ovulation and conception are two inseparable concepts. On the days of ovulation, the female body is ready for fertilization.

Ovulation: the day of the cycle when the egg is ready to be fertilized

The process occurs at intervals of 21-35 days, depending on the length of the menstrual cycle, approximately in its middle. As a rule, after 12-16 (on average - 14) days after ovulation, menstruation occurs.

Ovulation: symptoms that indicate readiness to conceive

In the middle of the menstrual cycle, ovulation occurs, the symptoms of which can be both mild and pronounced, depending on the individual characteristics of the body:

1) pain in the lower abdomen;

2) increased sexual desire;

3) more mucus is secreted in the cervix;

4) the color of the discharge may change.

1. Pain during ovulation

Not all women experience pain during or after ovulation. According to statistics, pain is observed in only one in five women. You can feel pain during ovulation due to slight bleeding: the follicle bursts, and, in addition to the egg, follicular fluid comes out of it, as well as small blood clots.

• Mild pain during ovulation- a normal phenomenon.

It hurts during ovulation in the lower abdomen - where the ovaries are located. The pain may be cutting, stabbing or cramping. Duration - about an hour, but for some women - a day or two. If the pain during ovulation is severe, tell your gynecologist about it.

The ovaries work alternately: in one month the follicle matures in the right, in another month - in the left ovary. For this reason, pain during ovulation is usually felt either on the right or on the left.

Gynecologists explain the pain during ovulation by the fact that the graafian vesicle stretches the walls of the ovary. Also, pain during ovulation is associated with the fact that fluid flows out of the burst follicle. It stimulates the contractions of the uterus and fallopian tubes, which causes pain during ovulation.

• Pain after ovulation- not so common.

If the signs of ovulation bother you, see a specialist. Pain after ovulation, such as a week before your period, can be a sign of ovarian inflammation or other reproductive problems. Pain during ovulation, before or after it is not necessarily associated with the release of the egg: most gynecological diseases are accompanied by pain of a different nature and intensity.

2. Increased sex drive

Pain during ovulation has little effect on sexuality: sexual desire in many even increases. Nature itself tells you: ovulation has begun and conception is now most likely.

3. Ovulation discharge

If you are interested in how to determine ovulation, just watch your body:

• discharge can begin a few hours before ovulation and last up to two days;
• discharge during ovulation becomes more liquid compared to discharge before and immediately after menstruation.

Fluid discharge is one of the signs that you can tell that you are ovulating and that pregnancy is most likely. At the same time, they are similar to egg white and should be “stretched” between the fingers.

4. Changed color of discharge

The color of the discharge may be reddish and look like a little bleeding or pinkish. Please note: there should not be a lot of blood. Uterine bleeding can be life-threatening, for example, if a uterine fibroid has a twisted leg.

The above symptoms allow you to determine the approximate days of ovulation. If the discharge has become more liquid, this does not necessarily mean that ovulation has passed.

• With 1st The day of menstruation, the follicular, or menstrual, phase begins. During this period, several follicles begin to grow in the ovaries.
• With 7th day and until the middle of the cycle lasts the ovulatory phase. At this time, the main follicle, the Graafian vesicle, stands out. It develops an ovum.
• 14th day 28 day cycle - ovulation. On this day of the Graafs, the bubble bursts: a mature egg comes out of it, which, perhaps, will become the beginning of a new life. It is at this point that a woman may feel pain during ovulation. In the days after ovulation, the egg travels to the uterus through the fallopian tube. According to various sources, the egg lives 24-48 hours, but many girls, when asked how long ovulation lasts, answer that they became pregnant up to 5 days after they received positive LH test results.
• With 15th day, the corpus luteum phase begins - this is the period after ovulation and before the start of the next menstruation. The walls of the burst follicle gather like flower petals in the evening, accumulate fats and luteal pigment, which gives them a yellow color. The modified Graafian vesicle is now called the corpus luteum - hence the name of the period.

The cycle changes:

• within one year
• after childbirth;
• within three months after the abortion;
• after 40 years, when the body is preparing for menopause.

Lack of ovulation, or anovulation

Ovulation and pregnancy are closely related, so the absence of the first leads to the inability to have a baby. However, even in a healthy woman, the egg does not mature in every cycle. Two to three cycles per year with anovulation is normal. With age, the number of such periods increases.

But if there are four or more anovulations in a year, consult a doctor. As in cases where a woman has severe pain during ovulation in the lower abdomen, this can be a symptom of endocrine or gynecological diseases.

The absence of ovulation is observed when:

• pregnancy;
• menopause;
• hormonal imbalance;
• taking certain medications.

If you want to have a baby, ovulation is stimulated with hormonal drugs. But don't self-medicate. Stimulation should take place under the supervision of an experienced doctor: he will examine, conduct the necessary tests and prescribe medications that suit you.

Types of ovulation:

• timely;
• premature ovulation;
• late.

Causes of premature ovulation

Premature is the release of the egg not in the middle of the menstrual cycle, but earlier. It can happen for various reasons:

• intense sexual intercourse;
• physical activity (weight lifting, training in the gym);
• stress;
• diet;
• illness;
• hormonal imbalance.

If you have an unstable cycle, it is difficult to talk about premature ovulation, since the hormonal system does not work normally.

Please note: even stress can cause premature ovulation. Due to nervous tension, attempts to lose weight, diseases that we do not always even pay attention to, premature ovulation can occur quite often.

Causes of late ovulation

Sometimes, due to hormonal disruptions, late ovulation can occur. If, in the middle of the cycle, the stomach does not hurt and there are suspicions that you have late ovulation, go through folliculometry - tracking ovulation using ultrasound.

Answers to popular questions about ovulation

How many days does ovulation last?

After leaving the follicle, the egg, according to various sources, "lives" 24-48 hours - this is the period of ovulation. Depending on how many days ovulation lasts - one or two - your chances of getting pregnant change.

Ovulation: what day to plan conception?

If you are planning a pregnancy, you need to consider how long ovulation lasts and how long the sperm cell lives. After ovulation, the egg cell lives only one day, and sperm cells - 2-3 days. Based on this, in order to become pregnant, sexual intercourse should occur no earlier than 2-3 days before and no later than 24 hours after ovulation.

How not to get pregnant, knowing when ovulation (cycle day) takes place?

Due to late and premature ovulation, due to the fact that in some men sperm live longer than 7 days, as well as a whole range of other reasons, the calendar method is the same “reliable” method of contraception as coitus interruptus (Pearl index for the calendar method - 14–38.5, and for coitus interruptus - 12–38). Even if your lower abdomen hurts during ovulation and you know exactly when it passes, this will not protect you from unwanted pregnancy.

Is it possible to get pregnant with late or premature ovulation?

Yes, sure.

How does an ovulation test work?

In the middle of the menstrual cycle, the level of luteinizing hormone rises. The ovulation test is designed to determine the amount in the urine.

Using the test is easier than measuring your basal temperature every day and drawing an ovulation chart. In clinical trials, the test gives a very high level of accuracy - 99%. If you follow the instructions, you can accurately determine the most favorable period for conception. Although some medications may cause incorrect results.

Most often, the test contains 5 strips in sealed packages. In addition to them, in addition, you may need a watch.

As soon as you notice signs of ovulation, such as ovulation pain, take a test to make sure it has gone. How to use an ovulation test is usually indicated on the package. usually used in the same way as a pregnancy test: collect urine in a clean, dry container and place the test strip there for 5-10 seconds until the indicated mark. In 10 minutes you will know the result.

How much does an ovulation test cost?

An ovulation test, the price of which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, is usually more expensive than a pregnancy test. If you want to get pregnant, buy an ovulation test: its price is small compared to the fact that you are closer to your dream. A set of five Frautest strips costs about 300 rubles, Eviplan - about the same, OVUPLAN - cheaper, up to 200 rubles.

If you suspect the absence of ovulation or for another reason want to do tests in each cycle, you can purchase a reusable digital test - it costs about 1000 rubles. This is especially useful for premature ovulation or too late.

How to use the basal temperature chart to determine when the egg is released?

What day does ovulation occur? This question is of interest to many women: both those who are not yet ready to replenish the family and are protected from unwanted pregnancy, and those who dream and want to become a mother.

The basal temperature during ovulation rises by 0.3–0.6 ° C, and about a day before it, it drops slightly. By daily measuring the temperature and building a schedule, a woman can know about the onset of ovulation the day before it starts. Determining ovulation by basal temperature is a simple method, but it does not give one hundred percent accuracy.

Basal body temperature rises slightly during ovulation. It must be measured in the morning at the same time, in the supine position, without getting out of bed. You need to use the same thermometer. To measure the temperature, it is necessary to insert a medical thermometer into the anus for 5 minutes. You enter these measurements into the ovulation chart, which marks the days of the menstrual cycle and the temperature.

From the beginning of menstruation to the middle of the cycle - the temperature is below 37 ° C. When the egg matures, the temperature rises by only a few tenths of a degree, but the graph will show a noticeable jump. This is the period of ovulation: a favorable time for conception if you want to have a baby, and the most “dangerous” time if you are not planning to replenish the family yet.

How does the calendar method for determining ovulation work?

To find out when ovulation occurs (on which day of the cycle), count how many days pass from the start of one period to the start of another. Ovulation time is in the middle of the cycle plus or minus two days. That is, if 28 days pass from the first day of menstruation to the onset of the next menstruation, then ovulation occurs on day 14–15. If your cycle is 35 days long, then it occurs on the 17-18th day after the start of menstruation. These days, some women experience pain during ovulation and other symptoms described above.

Is there a way to EXACTLY determine which day you ovulate?

How to determine ovulation with 100% probability? There are two ways.

1. ultrasound: during the procedure, the size and stage of development of the follicle are determined, and they also calculate when it bursts and an egg is released from it, or ovulation occurs.
2. Blood test for luteinizing hormone: This is a hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. Its level in the body increases significantly before ovulation. The work of pharmacy tests for ovulation is based on the same principle.

Is it possible to get pregnant in the days after ovulation?

After ovulation, the greatest opportunity to become pregnant remains within 24 hours (according to some sources - 36-48 hours). If conception does not occur, the egg dies.