Ovulation timing

Question 1

Ovulation timing - overview

Answer 1

Ability to become pregnant depends crucially on the ability of the couple to have sexual intercourse at the key time of the cycle

1. Some, but not all, ovulatory women experience a mid-cycle mucus change. High levels of E during the latter part of the follicular phase of the cycle are reflected in their vaginal secretions -> may become more copious, water and ‘stretchy’
2. Preovulatory mucus is often said to resemble egg white. Such cervical mucus changes typically last 1-3d, and the time of the maximal mucus change is considered a woman’s most fertile time of the cycle
3. Women who do not recognise mucus changes may be able to calculate when they are likely to ovulate, based on the observation that the luteal phase of the cycle is of consistent length, typically 13-14d. Hence, ovulation is anticipated 13-14d before their next menstrual period
4. Some couples find ovulation test kits that detect the LH hormone surge in a urinary sample helpful towards their timing of sexual activity
5. Most fertile approach = sex approximately daily for 5d prior to, and including, the day of ovulation. Reasons = short survival of egg after ovulation, sperm may survive several days in female genital tract, improvement in sperm quality seen with daily ejaculation. Alternate-day sexual activity in this fertile phase is almost as effective.

Note - important to acknowledge that sexual dysfunction (to a greater or lesser extent) is a normal accompaniment to fertility problems for all couples. Important to give them the chance to ask questions and to reassure them that this is a very common experience