How To Track Your Fertile Window When You Are Trying To Conceive

One of the most important things that you should remember while trying to get pregnant is that timing is key. You are more likely to have a successful pregnancy during your fertile window as compared to other days in the month. But what exactly is a fertile window and how do you calculate this timeframe within your menstrual cycle? We give you all the details. 

Keep reading to know more about determining your fertile window and increasing the odds of a positive conception. 

What Is a Fertile Window?

You are the most fertile three days before your ovulation and on the day of the ovulation itself. This means, if you have an average cycle of 28-days, you are most fertile on the six days leading to your ovulation cycle and have the highest chances of getting pregnant. This five to six-day window before your ovulation cycle is your fertile window.

How to Calculate Your Fertile Window?

You can calculate your fertile window using online ovulation calculators. However, if you have an irregular menstrual cycle, you may need more assistance calculating your fertile window. In the next section, we have listed some of the most effective ways to determine your fertility window. 

Create A Menstrual Diary

When trying to predict your fertile window and ovulation cycle, it’s crucial to determine your cycle length by creating a menstrual diary. Start tracking your menstrual cycle for a few months using an app or an ovulation calculator, and then compare your data to determine your average cycle length. 

The first day of your period is considered day one of your cycle, and ovulation usually happens about 14 days before your next period is due. For instance, if the interval of your cycle is 28 days, you are likely to ovulate on the 14th day. Similarly, if your cycle length is around 30 days, you will ovulate on day 16 of the cycle. 

Since you are most likely to conceive on the day of ovulation and the five days before it, your fertile window for a 28 and 30-day cycle varies between 9-14 days and 11-16 days respectively.

Try An Ovulation Predictor Kit (OPK)

Ovulation predictor kits are available at most medical stores and require you to do a urine test to help determine your fertility window. They work by monitoring the luteinizing hormone (LH), which usually surges roughly 36 hours before ovulation. If you are trying to conceive, then you should plan your intercourse shortly after detecting a surge in your LH hormone.

Monitor Your Cervical Mucus

There is an increase in the volume of your cervical mucus during your fertile window. It is likely to appear more clear and more slippery as compared to the other days in your cycle. If you notice your mucus appearing thick and slimy (almost like egg whites), there’s a good chance you are ovulating and need to time intercourse accordingly for a positive conception.

Chart Your Basal Body Temperature (BBT)

Basal body temperature is nothing but your body’s base/resting temperature that rises during ovulation by at least two to tenths of a degree. Taking your basal body temperature first thing in the morning using a special BBT thermometer can help monitor your most fertile days. As this method only detects ovulation only after it has already occurred, it is usually recommended to help confirm ovulation or as a means of determining your average fertile window.

Use a Fertility Monitor

These are another type of ovulation calculator that track your LH hormone and oestrogen levels to determine your most fertile days. Fertility monitors are mostly effective, but they are usually on the pricier side as compared to regular ovulation predictor kits.

Visit Your Doctor

You can also visit your doctor to confirm your ovulation cycle. Doctors usually recommend a pelvic ultrasound to monitor your ovulation and detect your most fertile days. Getting a thorough check-up can also help your doctor determine if you have any fertility issues or underlying health conditions that could be delaying your pregnancy.

When Will You Conceive?

The best way to conceive is of course through regular intercourse, especially during your fertile window. However, keep in mind that you might not get pregnant right away. Even if your timing is perfect and there are no other diagnoses at play, the chance of pregnancy might vary per month. In general, women aged below 30 have a 25% probability of getting pregnant right away, and this percentage drops by 5% by the time you get to your 40s.

How Long Should You Try Before Seeking Medical Advice?

If you have been trying to conceive for over a year but haven’t succeeded then you should consider seeking medical advice from a fertility expert or gynaecologist. Your inability to conceive could depend on various factors, such as underlying health conditions like PCOS, hormonal fluctuations, or endometriosis. Your partner’s health could also play a role in getting pregnant, so it’s recommended to get a thorough check-up from your doctor.

The doctor may recommend a series of examinations for both you and your partner, and based on the test results, decide on what further treatment could increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Conclusion

It’s essential to keep a track of your fertile window while planning your pregnancy, as timing intercourse during that frame can result in positive conception. Use an ovulation calculator, or ovulation predictor kits to determine your most fertile days, and follow up with your doctor to know any underlying health conditions that could be affecting your chances of pregnancy.

FAQs

What is a fertile window?

The 5-6 day window before your ovulation cycle is referred to as your fertile window. Having regular intercourse during this time can increase your chances of a successful pregnancy.

How many days after your period are you fertile?

This depends on your menstrual cycle. If you have a 28-day cycle, you will be fertile between 9-14 days of your cycle.

Can I get pregnant during my fertile window?

Having regular intercourse during your fertile window can increase the chances of a positive pregnancy.

How do I know if I am in my fertile window?

You can keep track of your fertile window by calculating your ovulation cycle by using an ovulation calculator, or an ovulation predictor kit. You can also chart your basal body temperature to determine your fertile period. 

Cover image credit: Freepik.com