There are many ways to predict a woman’s fertile window, but not all methods are reliable. Many women use fertility apps, monitor basal body temperature, and/or use home ovulation prediction kits. These methods can all give different results, which can be confusing and stressful for a woman trying to conceive. So, what is the best way to predict a woman’s fertile window?
As Dr. Wisot mentioned in his post last week, fertility apps often miss the mark. In fact, in a 2016 study of fertility calculators, of 53 popular fertility calculators evaluated, only 4 accurately predicted the best days for conception. So, if you’re relying on an app to time intercourse and are struggling to conceive, the timing may not be right.
Basal body temperature charting can also mislead a woman in regards to timing intercourse. A woman’s basal body temperature rises after ovulation. If you’re trying to conceive though, the best time to have intercourse is just prior to ovulation or right at the time of ovulation. So, if you’re waiting for your temperature to rise, it may be too late.
In my opinion, the best home monitoring is with home ovulation predictions kits. Home ovulation prediction tests function by detecting a woman’s luteinizing hormone (LH) surge, which peaks prior to ovulation. The peak usually occurs 24-48 hours prior to ovulation actually happening. Since women are alerted just prior to ovulation, this allows for better timing than basal body temperature monitoring.
Home ovulation prediction kits are not 100 percent reliable though. Some women will experience false positive or false negative results with these tests. False positive tests may give a woman the impression that she is ovulating, but it’s possible that she might not be. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome may be more likely to get false positive tests.
If you have been using any of the methods above and are struggling to conceive, you should see your doctor to try to figure out what’s going on. Monitoring for ovulation with other methods, such as ultrasound, may help you better understand what’s going on with your ovulation.