Ovulation Tests - Points to keep in Mind
There is no point in applying ovulation tests and finally receiving positive results if you don't do follow-up actions like engaging in unprotected sex within the fertile time or ovulation window. Hence, diligently ensure that you take next steps so that you capitalise the ovulation process.
The importance of precisely pinpointing the ovulation window of women can't be underscored. Ovulation is the time that women are most fertile offering heightened chances for conception and pregnancies. Hence, ovulation tests aren't just for women but also for couples who want babies as well as those who wish to avoid unwanted pregnancies.Ovulation tests have gained prominence and popularity in the public. There are 2 types of ovulation tests viz., test strips and midstream ovulation tests. They primarily measure the Luteinizing Hormone [LH] passed in the urine of a woman to provide test results indicating whether the woman is close to her fertile period. The tests do this owing to their ability to detect LH heightened levels that giveaway an LH surge. The LH surge is when the woman is expected to be most fertile within the next 3 days after a positive test result. Peak fertility also occurs at 36 hours after LH surge. Unprotected sex during this ovulation window increases chances of women getting pregnant.
The popularity of the ovulation tests is well deserved as they are accurate, reliable and inexpensive. They can be applied by women at home and don't require any special training except following a simple list of instructions verbatim. They are also available over the counter without any prescription. Importantly, test results can be obtained quickly in 5 minutes.
When using ovulation tests, a few points need to be kept in mind to ensure that tests are effective.
Be aware of your test results. If they are constantly negative over a time period, check whether tests are applied correctly. Alternatively, you may not be ovulating appropriately. Consult a Doctor to drill down into the problem.
Understand your menstrual cycle thoroughly. The timing of the test determines its effectiveness - too early or too late renders ovulation tests ineffective.
Ensure that urine collected is at room temperature. Use test strips as soon as possible after removing seals. Further, ensure that the test device is being used and retained on a clean surface. Check for expiry periods and use within specified timelines.
Check if the ovulation tests picked up by you are approved by Health Agencies.
Maintain test records along with dates and timings. They may be useful later if you need to consult a Doctor.
When applying ovulation tests, follow instructions to the dot. Similarly, interpret test results based on control colour band and test colour band. For positive test result, the colour change should either match or exceed control colour band.
One single test isn't going to do the job. You may need to repeat the tests twice a day and daily to catch the LH surge. Maintain consistency of test timings.
There is no point in applying ovulation tests and finally receiving positive results if you don't do follow-up actions like engaging in unprotected sex within the fertile time or ovulation window. Hence, diligently ensure that you take next steps so that you capitalise the ovulation process.