Preconception 101

Lesson 3: Tried and True Tips on Pregnancy Achievement

Help in Pregnancy Achievement

Ovulation Kits

Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) are a wonderful way of discovering when you are about to ovulate. The main reason for OPKs is to predict when ovulation should occur within a 12-48 hour time span. An OPK detects a surge of luetenizing hormone, the hormone that prompts the ovaries to release an egg. However, some women may have days of luetenizing surges, and an OPK would continually show a surge. Most kits' instructions advise to test until you see the first positive surge, then to have intercourse within the next 48 hours. Some women will have a surge for three full days before actually ovulating. You need to keep these things in mind when using OPKs. Of course, charting is an excellent way of confirming when ovulation has occurred. It may take a month or two to find out how your body does and to correctly use OPKs.

If you plan on using an OPK, be sure to follow all instructions and to test at the same time every day. Some practitioners suggest to use an OPK every 12 hours, especially if preparing for an inter-uterine insemination. This is because of the fact that the egg sometimes only lives as little as 12 hours. Although OPKs are a good way to tell when ovulation occurs, charting all the fertility signs can be as accurate, or more accurate, and saves you money.

Fertility Monitors

Is a fertility monitor is right for you. Number one, how long have you been trying. Number two, how many more children do you plan on having. Number three, have you been diagnosed with infertility. These and other factors influence whether or not a fertility monitor is a wise investment.

There are several different types of fertility monitors that test saliva, urine and cervical mucus. The prices range from around $36.00 to over $500.00. Let's take a look at some of them.

Saliva Test

These "monitors" test the saliva during the menstrual cycle. You will need to learn the differences you will see in the test results pre-ovulation, during ovulation and post ovulation to accurately determine the results. The "fern-like" appearances you are looking for alert you to your fertile times of your cycle.

Electrolyte Test

A more expensive and advanced saliva testers are monitors that detect the electrolytes in both saliva and in cervical fluid. These monitors have a saliva tester that is placed directly on the tongue and one inserted into the vagina, the measurement of the electrolytes is recorded on a chart. You need to learn to read the chart to determine how close you are to ovulation. Ovulation can be predicted up to seven days ahead with these monitors. Unlike some of the urine monitors there is no need to purchase any strips, no monthly expense.

Urine Test

With one of these you dip a strip into your urine and insert it in the monitor and you will be alerted as to whether or not you are at low, high or peak with your fertility.

Fertility clinics use these monitors everyday with their patients. If you decide that a monitor is a good investment for you, you will do well to research each one and determine the best monitor for you.

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