How Do I Know I’m Ovulating?
How do I know if Im ovulating?
I get asked this question by my patients all the time! We are often told that ovulation occurs on day 14 of the menstrual cycle. However, this is rarely the case, even for those who have a regular 28 day cycle. Let’s explore the hormonal fluctuation that occurs during ovulation and the best signs to watch for.
In the lead up to ovulation, the growing follicle releases more and more estrogen. The endometrial lining becomes thicker and rich with blood vessels. Yin and Blood are building at this time. Once estrogen levels are high enough, the pituitary gland responds by releasing Luteinizing Hormone (LH). This surge in LH prepares the dominant follicle to release an egg from the ovary into the fallopian tube. At the same time, progesterone starts rising in preparation for the luteal phase of the cycle. In Chinese medicine, we describe this process as the transformation from Yin to Yang in the menstrual cycle.
The ebb and flow of hormones before and during ovulation show up as physical changes in the body. These signs can be useful tools if you are trying to conceive a tiny human, seeking a natural conception method or if you’re wanting to deepen your understanding of your menstrual cycle. Here is what to look out for:
1. Changes to cervical fluid. Clear, stretchy, vaginal discharge is released in the days leading up to ovulation as a response to an excess of estrogen. You might feel more wet or notice a slippery sensation when wiping. The mucus is often clear and stretchy and has a similar consistency to egg whites. The purpose of the mucous is to help transport sperm from the vagina into the cervix and therefore its presence indicates the fertile time of the month.
2. A rise in your Basal Body Temperature (BBT). Progesterone starts to release during ovulation and continues to increase throughout the luteal phase of the cycle. This causes a sudden rise in BBT, commonly between 0.3-0.5 degrees Celsius. Ovulation is indicated when the waking temperature increases by 0.3 or more degrees and continues to stay high for at least 3 consecutive days. The day of ovulation is the temperature before the rise.
3. Changes to the shape, position and texture of the cervix. The ligaments supporting the uterus begin to tighten in response to the peak of estrogen prior to ovulation. As a result, the uterus moves higher up in the body and positions the cervix higher in the vagina. The cervix is also open and softer to the touch during ovulation. For those who wish to check for these changes, a squatting position is usually easier to feel the cervix.
4. Increased libido. Your partner looks just a bit more appealing during these mid-cycle days. Some people may notice their libido increase in the lead up to ovulation as a response to the rising estrogen levels. You may also notice a feeling of confidence and increased energy.
5. Abdominal discomfort. Some people describe one sided low abdominal twinging or mild cramping during ovulation. This occurs when the egg is released from the ovary and makes its way along the fallopian tube and into the uterus. Others may experience much more severe ovulation pain which can be treated and managed with Chinese medicine.
6. Other signs – the fluctuation of hormones around ovulation may give rise to sensitive nipples, tender breasts, bloating, mood changes, headaches which again can be managed and treated with Chinese medicine.
Knowing what to look for during ovulation will give you a better understanding of your body and of your unique menstrual cycle, and allows a deeper insight into the consistency of ovulation.
