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What Are the 7 Signs of Ovulation?

Published in Ovulation Signs 2 mins read

Seven common signs that you're ovulating include:

  1. Positive Ovulation Test: Home ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) detect a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers ovulation. A positive test indicates you're likely to ovulate within the next 24-48 hours.

  2. Cramping on One Side: Some women experience mild cramping or pain, often described as a sharp twinge or ache, on one side of their lower abdomen. This is sometimes called mittelschmerz.

  3. Rise in Basal Body Temperature (BBT): Your BBT, taken first thing in the morning before getting out of bed, typically rises slightly (about 0.5-1 degree Fahrenheit) after ovulation due to the influence of progesterone. Tracking this rise can help pinpoint ovulation.

  4. Increased Sex Drive (Libido): A surge in hormones can lead to a heightened sex drive around the time of ovulation.

  5. Cervical Mucus Changes: Cervical mucus becomes thin, slippery, and clear, similar in consistency to raw egg whites. This change makes it easier for sperm to travel to the egg.

  6. Breast Tenderness: Many women experience some breast tenderness or soreness around ovulation, possibly due to hormonal fluctuations.

  7. Heightened Sense of Smell or Taste: Some individuals report a heightened sense of smell or taste during ovulation, although this isn't universally experienced. This is thought to be related to hormonal changes.

While light spotting can sometimes occur around ovulation, it's not as consistently reported as the other signs listed above. It's important to remember that not all women experience all of these signs, and the intensity of these signs can vary from cycle to cycle.