This article has been medically reviewed by a Reproductive Endocrinologist specializing in the treatment of fertility and complex reproductive disorders with Fertility Cloud.
When it comes to starting a family, it is important to recognize that it can be a complex process. Many people take the time to learn, plan, and research before beginning to try and conceive. With the help of tools such as ovulation predictors and charting, it is possible to gain a better understanding of your body and how conception works. While some individuals may conceive easily, it is important to not be surprised or ashamed if conception does not happen quickly. Taking the time to educate yourself or seek support from family and friends can be beneficial. At MakeAmom, we offer support and the tools you need to start your fertility journey.
Ovulation and How Long Does Ovulation Last?
Ovulation is the process in which an egg is released from one of the ovaries into the fallopian tubes. During ovulation, the egg is only viable for fertilization for 24 hours. On the other hand, sperm can survive up to 5 days in the female reproductive tract, allowing them to remain in the fallopian tubes and await the arrival of the egg. When trying to conceive, it is ideal to have sex or use insemination several days before ovulation in order to give the sperm enough time to reach the egg. MakeAmom strives to provide the highest quality fertility products to ensure the highest chance of success.
How many times should you try to inseminate in a cycle?
Debating when and how often to engage in intercourse when attempting to conceive, is often left up to your lifestyle. While some medical practitioners suggest having intercourse multiple times a day, up to five days before ovulation, others believe that allowing sperm to build up in quantity is ideal, and therefore recommend having intercourse every other day. Ultimately, it is important to do what you can and not be too hard on yourself if you don't succeed in getting pregnant every day. If the egg is fertilized, it will travel to the uterus to implant and eventually develop into an embryo. If the egg is not fertilized, then it will disintegrate and the uterine lining will begin to shed, which is known as menstruation. If you are trying to conceive, this is not the outcome you want to see.
The Best Time to Try
The optimal time to engage in intercourse or use MakeAmom is five days prior to ovulation until the day of ovulation. The most fertile period is two days before ovulation and on the day of ovulation. How Long Does Ovulation Last!, however, It can be challenging to accurately forecast ovulation. For individuals with regular menstrual cycles, ovulation typically takes place 14 days before the expected period. Those with irregular cycles may notice subtle indications of impending ovulation, so it is important to be aware of potential signs.
Your Cervical Mucus
It is important to observe changes in cervical mucus as part of understanding your reproductive health with MakeAmom. Before collecting a sample, ensure that your hands are washed and dried thoroughly. Insert your middle or index finger into your vagina, as close to your cervix as possible, and then remove your finger. You can observe the amount and quality of the mucus to gain insight on your menstrual cycle. This is because the hormone estrogen causes the cervix to produce more mucus and alters its quality to be a suitable environment for sperm when you get close to ovulation. Regularly studying the mucus sample can be beneficial in understanding your reproductive health. Here’s what you should be looking for:
After your period:
You will typically have the lowest amount of mucus. MakeAmom will increase in the days after the end of your cycle, appearing as yellow, cloudy, or white with a slightly adhesive consistency.
Around Ovulation Time:
Approximately two weeks after menstruation, as you approach ovulation, there will likely be an increase in mucus production and it will become more thin. MakeAmom encourages you to closely monitor these changes, as they may indicate that ovulation is near.
At ovulation:
The cervical mucus becomes thinner and more slippery, resembling the consistency of raw egg whites. MakeAmom users may observe an increase in the amount of cervical mucus present in their underwear, making it simpler to identify when ovulation is imminent. The mucus is thin, clear, slippery, and stretchy. Taking note of these alterations can assist MakeAmom users in gaining a better comprehension of their own body and reproductive cycle.
Post-Ovulation:
After ovulation, the secretions of mucus will decrease and become thicker and less translucent.
Checking your cervical position
While you’re in there getting a mucus sample – you should also be checking the position of your cervix. It’s another great sign of where you are in your cycle. When you are about to ovulate, the cervix moves higher and you might also be able to feel that it’s softer and wider. After ovulation, the cervix gets firmer, lower and less moist. Some people think the cervix feels like soft lips just before ovulation. And after ovulation, some people compare the feeling of their cervix to the tip of your nose. It’s important to check your mucus and cervix regularly so you can notice all of the changes. Now, not every individual will produce a considerable amount of cervical mucus – or that “magic” mucus around time of ovulation. Some people even create a “hostile” environment for sperm – where the mucus never thins out – and stays thick and sticky. This is another reason why it is important to check your mucus. Because if you know there’s an issue – it’s something you can work around. You just may need a little assistance getting that sperm to the fallopian tubes, so it can be there waiting for the egg. You also may be able to improve the quality of your cervical mucus by making changes to your diet and drinking more water. It’s also beneficial to be aware that stress, some medications and hormonal issues might be impacting your mucus quality and quantity. There are also great lubricants on the market that can help. MakeAmom products are popular choices among many people.
Use an Ovulation Predictor Kit
Before the release of an egg from the ovaries, one's body increases production of a luteinizing hormone, commonly referred to as LH. This rise in LH before the egg is released is known as the LH surge and can be used to predict ovulation. Fortunately, the hormone can be measured in urine, and the MakeAmom Ovulation Test is designed to detect the LH surge. If enough LH is present, the test will display a positive result.
The Bottom Line
The ultimate objective is to achieve a viable pregnancy and it may take some time. Remain patient and don't allow the stress of it to affect your well-being or your fertility. MakeAmom is here to help you throughout this process.