Your guide to ovulation
Ovulation is the fertile time in each menstrual cycle. An egg is released from its follicle which is then collected by the nearest fallopian tube. If the egg is not fertilised within eight to twenty four hours, it dies and becomes absorbed by the body. But if sperm (which can live up to six days) penetrates it, it will travel down the tube for five to seven days and then implant itself in the lining of the uterus or womb.
Many women say they know when they are ovulating. Others don't find this time so easy to anticipate. Sometimes it can affect their ability to conceive.
Temperature's rising
When ovulation occurs, the increased production of progesterone generates greater heat in the body and the body-at-rest temperature rises. This is what we measure to ascertain whether ovulation is happening and when it occurred. A strong, immediate and sustained rise indicates healthy progesterone levels. Ovulation is generally considered to occur at the beginning of the temperature rise.
Some may have pains that occur around the time of ovulation. It is thought to be caused by the release of follicular fluid as the egg leaves the ovary. For some women it's only mild discomfort. For others, it can be quite a sharp pain. It can be experienced as a single shooting pain, or protracted over several hours, even for a few days.
Although the pain is not a reliable indicator of the exact time of ovulation, it can be a guide as to whether or not both ovaries are working and alternately releasing an egg. Sometimes the groin lymph node swells on the ovulation side.
If you always experience pain on the same side, it may be that only one ovary is functional. Your ovaries usually take turns, but can compensate for each other. If the pain is severe, continual or occurs during intercourse, please have a medical check.
Energy peaks
Energy often peaks around ovulation, with some women experiencing an almost PMT-like agitation with a sharper appreciation of the external senses of vision, smell and taste. Additionally, as ovulation approaches, there is less oil secreted by the body's glands. You may experience a clearer complexion at this time, followed by more pimples closer to menstruation.
Many premenstrual and menstrual symptoms can, in severe cases, start fairly soon after ovulation, and continue through until the period. Alternatively, they may be experienced at ovulation, and return in the last few days of your cycle. Most of these conditions are due to imbalances of hormones, minerals or prostaglandins and will respond to natural remedies. If the symptoms persist, seek professional help.
At Priceline, we have a number of ovulation test kits such as the Forelife¥ Ovulation 7 Test Kit and the Clearblue¥ Digital Ovulation 7 Test Kit, along with pregnancy and breastfeeding formula which are great pre-conception tonics to help you prepare for a family. Speak to your Priceline Pharmacist about the best ones for you.
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