How to use ovulation test kits in order to get pregnant fast
While you might find it unsettling to keep track of your basal body temperature and cervical mucus on a daily basis, it is at least the only option you have to know when you are ovulating. Knowing will help you maximize your chances of getting pregnant. This is where the ovulation tests come in. Ovulation tests are tests that determine your fertile days. They help you maximize your efforts in trying to conceive. They are also known as ovulation predictor kits (OPRs).
The mechanism of the ovulation test
Ovulation tests detect a spike in the luteinizing hormone when used in ovulation testing. The luteinizing hormone, or simply LH is produced by the gonadotrophic cells in the pituitary glands. In the case where LH rises, ovulation and the development of the corpus luteum are triggered. The ovulation tests specifically detect a surge in LH during ovulation.
How to use the OPRs
There are different types of ovulation kits: the urine-based OPKs and the salivary ferning kits. If you choose to use the urine-based kits, you will have to collect wee in a cup or hold a stick under you as you wee. Different color bands will appear on the card or stick as an indication of occurrence or non-occurrence of the LH surge. The digital kits work a little different by using symbols such as a smiley face as an indication of when you are most fertile.
Points to note
- Instructions vary depending on the kit you use but the best time is between 10 am and 8 pm
- Testing your wee immediately after you wake up is ineffective since you may miss the first day of your LH surge
- Reduce liquid consumption at least four hours before the test because too much water dilutes your wee thus more difficult to detect the surge
- Results are ready after ten minutes and a positive result will not disappear.
You may find it easier to use the salivary ferning OPK since all you have to do is use your finger to place some of your saliva on a slide or by licking it. These kits have a pocket-sized microscope. High estrogen levels increase salt content in saliva. After drying, it crystallizes into a fern-like pattern
Points to note
- You should do it as the first thing in the morning
- Don’t put too much
- Ensure its free of any air bubbles
Allow the saliva to dry and use the microscope to check for ferning. Shapeless blobs show that you are not in your fertile window. Otherwise, you can compare your slide with the examples given in the kit’s instructions and find out if you are in the fertile window.
How can ovulation tests help me to conceive?
Ovulation tests help you get pregnant because they alert you when you are ovulating. Consequently, you will know the right time to have sex. You can only get pregnant if you have sex during your ovulation window.
When is the best time to take the ovulation test?
The best time to take the test is from day 11 if you have a 28-day cycle and continue with the testing for six days. Some tests require testing with your first morning urine, and other tests require testing with afternoon urine. It’s best to follow the instructions on the brand of test that you’re using.
How soon after a positive ovulation test will I ovulate?
Most women ovulate between 12 – 36 hours after the first positive ovulation test.
Ovulation tests cost an extra few bucks, but they are useful if you are trying to conceive. In the end, the costs are all worth it when you hold your baby in your arms.
Easy@Home – Best Ovulation Test to Buy Over the Counter
