Why Timing Matters

There is only a brief period in each menstrual cycle when conception is possible. This short span is known as the “fertile window” and occurs around the time of ovulation.

Even during this time, the chance of conception is about 25% at best. But outside of this window, the chance of pregnancy drops to nearly zero.

The fertile window includes the five days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. This is because sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, while an egg remains viable for only about 24 hours after release.

To increase your chances of conceiving, it’s ideal to have intercourse during the three most fertile days: the two days before ovulation and the day of ovulation.

Understanding Ovulation

Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary and travels down the fallopian tube. This is the only time in a woman’s cycle when pregnancy is possible.

Because menstrual cycles can vary from woman to woman and even cycle to cycle, it’s important to monitor ovulation signs to know when it’s happening.

Recognising Signs Of Ovulation

Several signs can help you identify when you’re ovulating:

• Cervical mucus changes: Around ovulation, vaginal discharge becomes clear, stretchy, and slippery—similar to raw egg whites. This type of mucus helps sperm travel toward the egg.
• The Billings Method: You can assess cervical mucus manually by inserting a finger into the vagina until it reaches the cervix, then checking the mucus between your thumb and forefinger. When it stretches and feels slippery, ovulation is near.
• Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs): These at-home tests detect the surge of luteinising hormone (LH) that occurs 24 to 36 hours before ovulation. To determine when to begin testing, subtract 17 days from the average length of your cycle. For example, with a 28-day cycle, begin testing on day 11.
• Basal body temperature (BBT): After ovulation, your BBT rises slightly. By recording your temperature each morning before getting out of bed, you can identify ovulation patterns over time. However, because the temperature rise happens after ovulation, this method is best for predicting future cycles rather than identifying the fertile window in real time.

How To Track Ovulation

To improve your timing, it’s helpful to understand your menstrual cycle:

• Start tracking your cycle from the first day of your period (Day 1) to the day before your next period begins. This is your cycle length.
• Ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before your next period.

If your cycle is 28 days, ovulation likely occurs around Day 14, and the most fertile days are Days 12, 13, and 14.

For a 35-day cycle, ovulation might happen on Day 21, making Days 19 to 21 most fertile.

In a shorter 21-day cycle, ovulation would occur around Day 7, and the most fertile days would be Days 5 to 7.

Use the Medfem Fertility Clinic Ovulation Calculator

To help you to pinpoint your most fertile days, Medfem Fertility Clinic offers a free Ovulation Calculator. You can try it now at: Medfem Ovulation Calculator

Simply enter the first day of your last period and the average length of your cycle. The calculator will generate a calendar highlighting high fertility days, expected ovulation, and when your next cycle begins.

You can also subscribe to our Ovulation Calculator to keep track of your cycles more easily over time.

When To Seek Help To Get Pregnant

Timed intercourse, guided by ovulation tracking, can dramatically improve your chances of getting pregnant. With tools like ovulation calculators and the support of experienced fertility specialists, you can take confident steps toward pregnancy.

If you are struggling to fall pregnant or have any questions about fertility, don’t delay in reaching out to one of our fertility specialists at Medfem Fertility Clinic clicking here to book an initial consultation or contact us telephonically on +27 (11) 463 2244.

Our Fertility Specialists can also meet with You During a Virtual Consultation Via Zoom or Skype. Click here to book a virtual consultation now.

We look forward to meeting you!