When trying to conceive, the biggest mistake most couples make is not understanding a woman’s fertility cycle. To increase the chances of getting pregnant, it is imperative that a couple understand how their particular cycle works. Since it varies so much from person to person, knowing how your particular cycle occurs will help you create a specific time frame.
We have all heard information about the 28-day cycle. But, for most women, the 28-day cycle is a myth. Cycles vary greatly and the 28-day cycle is simply a general average of women’s cycles. If her cycle varies from this and you use information based on it, you may miss your ovulation window by a few days, a critical mistake when trying to conceive.
The best way to get a complete picture of your cycle is to track it. By creating a chart where you can write down specific cycle signs, you’ll become more familiar with when you’re most fertile and have the best possible chance of conceiving. So how do you do that? For two months, track your menstrual cycle. Mark the first day of your cycle and how long you menstruate.
At the end of two months, you will be able to determine the basic occurrence of your next cycle. Once you know your expected first day of your next cycle, count back 12 days and 16 days and mark them on your calendar as potential ovulation days. This is a range of when you might ovulate. Not totally accurate – you have more information to collect first! For women with a 28-day cycle, for example, their ovulation target would be day 14.
You then need to take a close look at your cervical mucus during this 12-16 day period. As your cycle continues and you get closer to ovulation, your cervical mucus increases as your body experiences a surge in estrogen. This is a precursor to ovulation.
You should notice an increase in this mucus just before ovulation. This mucus actually helps carry the sperm to the egg. Track this increase on your calendar as well. Finally, your body temperature will rise slightly right after ovulation. This is known as the “basal body temperature.” An increase of 0.4 to 1.0 degrees indicates that you have ovulated.
As you find your ovulation range, notice an increase in cervical mucus, and watch your temperature rise, you should be able to pinpoint a very close target date for ovulation. This day should be fairly consistent from month to month. With this information in your hands, you have a great advantage. An accurate ovulation date is the best tool you can have in your quest to get pregnant. Good luck!