In females, there is usually a period when egg cells are released into the ovaries.This process is called ovulation. Ovulation is therefore, when a mature egg is released from the ovary. The egg then moves down the fallopian tube where it can be fertilised. If sperm are in the fallopian tube when the egg is released, there is a good chance that the egg will be fertilised, creating an embryo, which can grow into a baby.
During this period, as already noted, the possibility of getting pregnant is very high. It therefore follows that every lady should try to know her ovulation period. This is so you can know when to have sex to get pregnant and when not to, to avoid pregnancy.
To know when you’re ovulating, there are signs to check out for which include:
- Rise in basal body temperature, typically 1/2 to 1 degree, measured by a thermometer
- Higher levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), measured on a home ovulation kit
- Cervical mucus, or vaginal discharge, may appear clearer, thinner, and stretchy, like raw egg whites
- Breast tenderness
- Bloating
- Light spotting
- Slight pain or cramping in your side.
To calculate your ovulation period, you must try to understand your menstrual cycle. This varies in different ladies but a normal cycle is 28 days. Here is how to calculate, your ovulation period
- Your cycle starts on the first day of your period and continues up to the first day of your next period.
- At the same time, eggs begin to mature in the ovary.
- The lining of the womb thickens ready for fertilization.
- During ovulation your cervical mucus becomes thinner and clearer to help the sperm reach the released egg.
- About 10 to 16 days before the start of your next period, an egg is released from one of the ovaries (ovulation).
- If sperm is present at the moment of ovulation, or some time during the next 24 hours, the egg may be fertilised.
- If the egg has not been fertilised, the egg is re-absorbed by the body, the hormone levels drop, and the womb lining is shed. This is the beginning of your next period.