One of the indicators of the normal functioning of the reproductive system is the regular maturation of the egg, so many women have the question of what day of the cycle ovulation occurs. It is easiest to accurately calculate the period suitable for conception with an average regular cycle. But there are certain methods that will help make calculations for girls with any cycle length.

What day comes

Ovulation is the release of an egg (oocyte) from the ovary. Breaking the walls of the follicle, it goes into the fallopian tubes. If at this moment active sperm are present in them, the probability of fertilization is high.

When does ovulation occur? In women with a normal and regular cycle of 28-30 days - 14-15 days. But the body cannot work like a machine, so there are deviations - the egg can leave the follicle for 11-21 days.

Important! The duration of ovulation is 12–48 hours, sperm cells are able to remain viable for 3–7 days. These factors should be taken into account by girls who do not plan to become a mother in the near future. Barrier contraception should be used 5 days before and after the expected egg release date.

The release of the egg from the ovary is accompanied by certain hormonal changes. You can determine ovulation by a number characteristic features, which are equally manifested in women with any length of the menstrual cycle.

The main symptoms of ovulation are:

1. Changes in the appearance and consistency of vaginal discharge - during ovulation, the cervical fluid becomes viscous and transparent, which facilitates the movement of the egg and sperm. The color of the mucus can be white, yellow, pink.
2. The amount of natural lubrication increases during sexual intercourse.
3. The mammary glands slightly increase in volume, hurt, and their sensitivity increases.
4. The position of the cervix changes - it rises higher, becomes softer.
5. Strengthening libido against the background of a hormonal surge, the body gives signals of readiness to conceive.
6. Minor bloody discharge of a smearing nature - appears after the rupture of the follicle.
7. Pain, cramps in the lower abdomen, most often on one side - occur when the walls of the follicle break, the fallopian tube contracts, during the movement of the egg. Normally, the discomfort is short-lived.

Among the additional symptoms at the end of ovulation, bloating, upset stools, increased appetite, headache, and mood swings are most common.

Long cycle

Long menstrual cycle- 35–45 days. Since the stage of the corpus luteum is approximately the same for all women, then to determine ovulation with a long cycle, you need to subtract 14 from its duration.

For example, with a cycle of 35 days, the calculation scheme is as follows: 35 - 14 = 21, ovulation should occur on day 21.

The average is the menstrual cycle, which lasts 28-32 days, while menstrual flow is observed for 3-5 days. Ovulation occurs after 12-15 days, with a 32-day cycle - after 18 days, but it all depends on individual characteristics organism.

How many days after ovulation will the test show pregnancy? A weak second streak may appear on the test 6-12 days later when the embryo is implanted. On which day exactly this will happen depends on the hormonal background.

Short

The short cycle lasts less than 25–26 days. To calculate the day of egg release, you need to subtract 14 from the cycle length, for example, 25 - 14 = 11. The favorable period for conception will come on the 11th day after menstruation.

If the menstrual cycle constantly lasts less than 21 days, the gynecologist can diagnose polymenorrhea, in such cases ovulation often occurs immediately after menstruation, on the 7-8th day.

Irregular cycle

To calculate the favorable period for conception with an irregular cycle, it will take a lot of effort - to keep a schedule, to measure the basal temperature regularly throughout the year.

To calculate the period of ovulation, it is necessary to subtract 11 from the longest cycle, from the shortest - 18. The obtained values ​​will show the interval in which conception can occur, but with an irregular cycle, these indicators can be a week or more.

Estimated ovulation date table

Cycle change

Early or late ovulation is quite common. Most often, such deviations are associated with hormonal disruption, which causes disturbances in the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovary ligament. Permissible deviations in the timing of ovulation are 1-3 days.

Late ovulation - the release of the egg occurs after the 20th day of the cycle, often observed before the onset of menopause. This pathology increases the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, birth defects in a child, miscarriage.

Why the ovulatory period is lengthened:

• hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism;
• benign neoplasms in the pituitary gland;
• adrenal insufficiency;
• severe stress;
• physical overwork, intense training;
• a sharp decrease or increase in weight by more than 10%;
• chemotherapy;
• long-term use of hormonal drugs.

Late ovulation also occurs during breastfeeding. When menstruation is restored after childbirth, a long follicular phase can be observed for six months. This phenomenon is considered normal, as the body prevents re-pregnancy.

Early ovulation

Early ovulation- The egg cell, during a normal cycle, leaves the follicle before 11 days, it is not suitable for fertilization. Additionally, a mucous plug is present in the cervix, which prevents the penetration of sperm, the endometrium is still too thin, and a high level of estrogen prevents the embryo from fixing.

Reasons for early ovulation:

• stress, nervous strain;
• natural aging - a high level of FGS is observed in the body, which provokes the active growth of follicles;
• smoking, alcohol abuse, coffee;
• endocrine and gynecological diseases;
• recent abortion;
• abolition of oral contraceptives.

Important! On average, for each year of taking OK, it takes 3 months to restore the normal ovulatory period.

Atypical Ovulation

Can there be 2 times ovulation in one cycle? In rare cases, 2 eggs are released into the fallopian tubes at once. Follicle rupture occurs in one of the ovaries with a difference of several days or in both ovaries at the same time.

Ovulation occurs immediately after the end of menstruation - this happens if menstruation lasts more than 5 days, which provokes hormonal imbalance. The reason may be the non-simultaneous maturation of follicles in two ovaries, such a pathology often becomes the cause of pregnancy after sex during critical days.

Important! The anovulatory cycle occurs during adolescence, before menopause. For women over 30 years old, 2-3 such cycles are allowed per year. If the timely release of the egg does not occur - this is one of the main signs of pregnancy, it is necessary to determine the level of hCG.

Ovulation diagnostics

Not all women show signs of egg release clearly, so it is necessary to use additional methods to determine the favorable period for conception.

How to determine ovulation:

1. Basal temperature - the most accurate data can be obtained by measuring in the rectum. This should be done at the same time immediately after waking up, without getting out of bed. It is better to use a mercury thermometer, the duration of the procedure is 5-7 minutes. In the first half of the cycle, the rectal temperature is 36.6-36.8 degrees. Immediately before the breakthrough of the follicle, there is a sharp decrease in indicators, then they increase to 37.1–37.2 degrees. The accuracy of the method is over 93%.
2. Pupil syndrome is a gynecological term that indicates the condition of the cervical pharynx. During the follicular phase, the pharynx expands, opens as much as possible immediately before ovulation, on the sixth day it narrows. The reliability of the method is about 60%.
3. The state of mucus - with the help of serrated tweezers, you need to take a small amount of secretions from the cervical canal, stretch it. 2 days before ovulation, the length of the thread is 9–12 cm, it gradually decreases, after 6 days the mucus completely loses its viscosity. The accuracy of the method is over 60%.
4. Home tests to measure urine LH levels - this method is only suitable for women with a regular cycle, otherwise you will have to use it constantly. There are also reusable saliva testing systems, but they are expensive. If your LH is high all the time, it could be a sign of stress or polycystic ovary disease. When to do the test? 14-16 days before the expected date of menstruation.
5. An ultrasound is the most accurate method to find out the day of ovulation. With a regular cycle, diagnostics are carried out on the 10-12th day of the cycle, with an irregular cycle - 10 days after the onset of menstruation.

To independently determine the date favorable for conception, you must keep a diary. It should record the indicators of rectal and normal temperature, the state of the cervix and vaginal discharge, the general condition, and when signs of ovulation appear, do tests.

Important! There is a theory that if sex was before the release of the egg, then when it is fertilized, there is a high probability that a girl will be born. If intercourse was directly during ovulation, boys are more often born.

Every girl needs to know the day of ovulation. These data will help to avoid unwanted pregnancy or increase the chance of a long-awaited conception. Specific symptoms, changes in the amount and structure of vaginal secretions, tests, basal temperature indicators will help determine the day of egg release.

Normally, the egg is released from the ovary in the middle of the menstrual cycle. If this happens ahead of time, early ovulation is observed.

What does this term mean

It is believed that with a 28-day cycle, the release of a mature germ cell develops on the 14th day. For most women, this is the case. However, in some cases, ovulation on a 28-day cycle may occur on day 12 or even earlier.

Women with this form of cycle disturbance have a short follicular phase. This is the time from the beginning of menstruation to the release of the egg from the ovary. It usually lasts 12-16 days. During this phase, the egg is protected by the follicle, in which it grows and matures.

If the duration of the follicular phase is less than 12 days, early ovulation occurs, and pregnancy is less likely in this case. The egg cell in such a situation is not fully matured and is not ready for fertilization.

Can this condition occur normally?

This can happen to any woman. But permanent premature rupture of the follicle can be the cause of infertility.

On what day of the cycle does early ovulation occur?

It occurs before the 12th day after the onset of menstruation. In a period of 12-16 days, the egg is already ready for fertilization with a cycle of 25 days.

Why is this happening

The main causes of early ovulation are:

• time before the onset;
• short follicular phase;
• smoking, alcohol and caffeine abuse;
• stress;
• sudden weight loss or sudden weight gain;
• early ovulation can occur after the abolition of OC (oral contraceptives);
• sexually transmitted diseases;
• a sudden change in normal daily activity;
• irregular menstrual cycle caused by gynecological hormonal diseases.

Any hormonal imbalance can disrupt the duration and staging of the menstrual cycle. The maturation of the egg in the ovarian follicle is stimulated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and its release is associated with the action of luteinizing hormone (LH). Both of these substances are produced in the pituitary gland under the control of the hypothalamus. A change in the level of these hormones leads to a violation of the ovulatory mechanism.

Premature onset of the ovulatory phase is associated with high FSH levels.

A decrease in ovarian activity inevitably occurs with age. At birth, a girl has about 2 million eggs. During each menstrual cycle, hundreds of them die, and only one matures. The exception is hyperovulation, when more than one egg matures in one cycle.

By the age of 30, a woman has lost more than 90% of all eggs. As menopause approaches, the pituitary gland by the mechanism feedback begins to secrete more and more FSH to compensate for the lack of ovulating follicles. This leads to menstrual irregularities.

The consequences of constant early ovulation are the release of immature eggs and infertility.

Studies have shown that smoking can disrupt the ovulatory cycle and affect female fertility. When a woman smokes more than 20 cigarettes a day, the full maturation of the egg is almost impossible. The same can be said about the effects of alcohol and caffeine.

Signs and symptoms

To determine the premature appearance of the egg, it is necessary to track the cycle for at least 3 months. With a 28-day cycle, ovulation should be expected on days 12-16, with a 30-day cycle - on days 13-17.

If a woman begins to feel the following symptoms soon after menstruation, most likely, her ovulatory phase began earlier than usual:

• increased viscosity of cervical mucus;
• soreness of the mammary glands;
• increased sexual desire;
• aching abdominal pain.

Signs of premature egg release can be tracked by measuring urinary LH levels with.

How else can you determine early ovulation?

Questions about pregnancy with this condition

Is it possible to get pregnant with early ovulation?

Yes, it is possible, but the likelihood of such an event is less than normal. With a premature ovulatory process, an immature egg comes out of the follicle. She may not fertilize or develop further. Such an egg is hardly implanted into the wall of the uterus, therefore, even the onset of pregnancy is terminated at an early stage.

Early onset of ovulation is a sign of reduced ovarian reserve capacity. The lower they are due to the woman's age or illness, the earlier she leaves the egg from the follicle.

An ovulation test performed at the initial stage of pregnancy can, instead of the LH level, determine the amount of hCG (these hormones have a similar chemical structure), and thus give false information about premature rupture of the follicle and the absence of pregnancy.

Another obstacle to pregnancy, for example, with a long cycle: a woman is expecting ovulation in the middle of the cycle, and the release of a mature egg has already occurred a long time ago, and all attempts to get pregnant are unsuccessful.

Could there be a cycle failure after termination of pregnancy?

Yes, this is quite common. You need to wait at least one full cycle after that for the ovulatory function to recover.

In some women, after a miscarriage, ovulation consistently occurs earlier than usual, leading to infertility. The reason for this can be the transferred stress or hormonal imbalance. In this case, you must consult a doctor.

Treatment

Most fertility problems in a woman are caused by ovulation disorders. Therefore, before starting treatment, you need to consult a doctor and check the hormonal background.

First of all, it is recommended to cut back on alcohol, caffeine and smoking. It is also best to sleep in complete darkness. This helps to restore the FSH level, which is responsible for the first phase of the cycle. This regulates and consolidates the normal cycle, which facilitates the conception and implantation of the embryo.

Other measures to restore reproductive function:

• full-fledged fortified food;
• auto-training techniques to cope with stress;
• sleep for at least 7 hours a day;
• hardening, physical activity in the fresh air.

Drug treatment includes the appointment of drugs that stimulate the maturation of the egg and its timely release - FSH and LH (Cetrotide). They are injected subcutaneously from the first days of the cycle until the time of normal ovulation. It is strictly prohibited to accept such funds on your own.

To normalize ovulation, glucocorticoids are often prescribed, mainly against the background of hyperandrogenism. It is not recommended to suddenly stop taking them. In this case, early ovulation may occur due to Metipred, Prednisolone or other glucocorticoid drugs. Their cancellation is carried out only by a doctor according to a certain scheme.

If a woman constantly has early ovulation on the 8th day of the cycle or a little later, she needs to see a doctor. This is especially important with a short menstrual cycle - 24 days, since the ability to conceive in this case is sharply reduced.

Sometimes, to restore hormonal levels, for example, when women take various dietary supplements. Their effect on hormone levels is unknown. Therefore, it cannot be said whether there can be early ovulation from Ovariamin or some similar means.

Self-restoration of timely ovulation is a complex process, which is difficult to influence only on your own. Therefore, all recommendations for treatment are reduced to the general strengthening of health, restoration of the functions of the neurohumoral system. This should cause the restoration of hormonal levels in a physically healthy woman.

The use of progestogens (Duphaston) is aimed at maintaining an already formed pregnancy, that is, at stabilizing the second phase of the cycle. Gestagens do not affect the first half of this period and cannot cause early ovulation. The same applies to the popular drug Utrozhestan.

The use of Cetrotidna to prevent early ovulation

This process is most dangerous in women who plan to use assisted reproductive technologies. Indeed, with early ovulation, the eggs may be immature, which means that their suitability for artificial insemination may decrease.

Cetrotide blocks the action of gonadotropin-releasing factor secreted by the hypothalamus and stimulates the production of FSH. Thus, through a chain of chemical reactions, the early release of FSH, which is responsible for the premature release of the egg, stops. During ovarian stimulation, which serves as an obligatory link in preparation for, early ovulation is a frequent occurrence. For its prevention, this drug is used.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone stimulates the release of LH and FSH from pituitary cells under the action of estradiol, the content of which increases towards the middle of the cycle. The result is a surge in LH levels, which causes the dominant follicle to ovulate normally.

The drug is administered subcutaneously. There may be short-term soreness or redness at the injection site. Other side effects include nausea and headache. It cannot be used during pregnancy, renal and hepatic insufficiency, postmenopausal women. The drug is dosed individually and prescribed only by an experienced doctor at the center for assisted reproductive technologies. Self-application of similar hormonal agents can cause a serious failure at the level of the hypothalamic-pituitary system.

The main task of a woman on Earth is considered to be procreation. Of course, both the woman and the man are involved in the process of conception, but whether a representative of the weaker sex endures pregnancy, whether she gives birth to a healthy child, depends only on herself. In order for fertilization to occur, ovulation is necessary. Ovulation and conception are two interrelated states, because in the absence of ovulation, fertilization is impossible. Signs of ovulation are almost always noticed by a woman (consciously or not), so their knowledge is necessary not only to plan a long-awaited pregnancy, but also to prevent an unwanted one.

The menstrual cycle and its phases

To define the term "ovulation", you should understand the concept of "menstrual cycle".

During the menstrual cycle, the female body consistently undergoes functional and structural transformations that affect not only the reproductive system, but also the rest (nervous, endocrine and others).

The formation of the menstrual cycle, which is physiological for the female body, begins at puberty. The first menstruation or menarche falls on the girl's 12-14 years of age and draws a line under the first period of puberty. The menstrual cycle is finally established in a year and a half and is characterized by the regularity of menstrual bleeding and a relatively stable duration. During the specified time (1 - 1.5 years), the cycles of a teenage girl are anovulatory, that is, there is no ovulation, and the cycles themselves consist of two phases: follicular and luteal. Anovulation during the formation of the cycle is considered absolutely normal and is associated with insufficient production of homones necessary for ovulation. By about the age of 16, the menstrual cycle acquires its own individual characteristics, which persist throughout life and regular ovulation appears.

Physiology of the menstrual cycle

The average duration of the menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days. The duration of menstrual bleeding is 3 to 7 days. For most women, the total cycle time is 28 days (75% of the population).

It is customary to divide the menstrual cycle into two phases, the border between which is ovulation (some sources distinguish a separate ovulatory phase). All periodically occurring and repeated approximately every month changes in a woman's body, in particular in the reproductive system, are aimed at ensuring full ovulation. If this process does not occur, the cycle is called anovulatory, and the woman, accordingly, is infertile.

Phases of the "female" cycle:

Phase one

In the first phase (another name is follicular), the production of follicle-stimulating hormone begins in the pituitary gland, under the influence of which the process of proliferation (maturation) of follicles or folliculogenesis is triggered in the ovaries. At the same time, for one month, about 10-15 follicles begin active growth in the ovary (either in the right or in the left), which become proliferating or maturing. Ripening follicles, in turn, synthesize estrogens necessary for the final completion of the process of maturation of the dominant follicle, that is, they are temporary glands. Under the influence of estrogens, the main (dominant) follicle forms a cavity around itself, which is filled with follicular fluid and where the egg "matures". As the dominant follicle grows and a cavity forms around it (now it is called a graaf bubble), follicle-stimulating hormone and estrogens accumulate in the follicular fluid. As soon as the process of oocyte maturation is completed, the dominant follicle sends a signal to the pituitary gland, and it stops the production of FSH, as a result of which the graaf bubble bursts and a mature full-fledged egg is released.

Second phase

So what is ovulation? The second phase (conventionally) is called ovulatory, that is, the period when the graafian vesicle ruptures and the egg cell appears in free space (in this case, in the abdominal cavity, more often on the surface of the ovary). Ovulation is the process of directly releasing an egg from the ovary. The rupture of the main follicle proceeds under the "banner" of luteinizing hormone, which begins to be secreted by the pituitary gland after a signal is given to it by the follicle itself.

Third phase

This phase is called luteal, as it proceeds with the participation of luteinizing hormone. As soon as the follicle burst and "released" the egg, the corpus luteum begins to form from the granulosa cells of the Graafian vesicle. In the process of division of granulosa cells and the formation of the corpus luteum, progesterone begins to be synthesized along with the pituitary gland secreting LH. The corpus luteum and the production of progesterone are designed to preserve the egg in the event of fertilization, ensure its implantation into the uterine wall and support pregnancy until the placenta is formed. The formation of the placenta is completed by about 16 weeks of pregnancy and one of its functions includes the synthesis of progesterone. So, if fertilization has taken place, then the corpus luteum is called the corpus luteum of pregnancy, and if the egg does not meet with the sperm, then the corpus luteum by the end of the cycle undergoes reverse changes (involution) and disappears. In this case, it is called the corpus luteum of menstruation.

All described changes concern only the ovaries and are therefore called the ovarian cycle.

Uterine cycle

Speaking about the physiology of the menstrual cycle and the ovulation cycle, we should also note the structural changes that occur in the uterus under the influence of certain hormones:

Desquamation phase

The first day of the menstrual cycle is considered to be the first day of menstruation. Menstruation is the rejection of an overgrown functional layer of the uterine lining, which was ready to receive (implant) a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not happen, then desquamation of the uterine mucosa occurs along with blood - menstrual bleeding.

Regeneration phase

It follows the desquamation phase and is accompanied by the restoration of the functional layer with the help of the reserve epithelium. This phase begins even during bleeding (at the same time the epithelium is rejected and restored) and ends on the 6th day of the cycle.

Proliferation phase

It is characterized by overgrowth of the stroma and glands and coincides in time with the follicular phase. With a 28-day cycle, it lasts up to 14 days and ends by the time the follicle matures and is ready to rupture.

Secretion phase

The secretory phase corresponds to the phase of the corpus luteum. At this stage, thickening and loosening of the functional layer of the uterine mucosa occurs, which is necessary for the successful introduction of a fertilized egg into its thickness (implantation).

Signs of ovulation

Knowing its signs will help to determine the day of ovulation, for which it is necessary to pay great attention to your body. Of course, ovulation can not always be suspected, because its manifestations are very subjective and sometimes go unnoticed by a woman. But the changes in the hormonal background that occur every month make it possible to "calculate" and remember the sensations during ovulation and compare them with the newly arrived ones.

Subjective signs

The subjective signs of ovulation include those that the woman herself feels and which only she can talk about. Another name for subjective signs is sensations:

Stomach ache

One of the first signs of ovulation is considered pain lower abdomen. On the eve of follicle rupture, a woman may feel, but not necessarily, a slight tingling sensation in the lower abdomen, usually on the right or left. This indicates a maximally enlarged and tense dominant follicle, which is about to burst. After its rupture, a small wound of several millimeters remains on the ovarian membrane, which also worries the woman. This is manifested by minor aching or pulling pains or discomfort in the lower abdomen. Such sensations disappear after a couple of days, but if the pain persists or is so acute that it disrupts the usual way of life, you should consult a doctor (ovarian apoplexy is possible).

Mammary gland

Perhaps the appearance of soreness or hypersensitivity in the mammary glands, which is associated with hormonal changes. The production of FSH stops and the synthesis of LH begins, which is reflected in the chest. She is swollen and rude and becomes very sensitive to touch.

Libido

Another characteristic subjective sign of approaching and onset ovulation is increased libido (libido), which is also due to hormonal changes. It is predetermined by nature, which ensures the continuation of the genus - since the egg is ready for fertilization, it means that you need to increase libido to increase the likelihood of sexual intercourse and subsequent pregnancy.

Aggravation of sensations

On the eve and during ovulation, a woman notes an exacerbation of all sensations (increased sensitivity to odors, changes in color perception and taste), which is also explained by hormonal changes. Emotional lability and a sudden change of mood (from irritability to fun, from tears to laughter) are not excluded.

Objective signs

Objective signs (symptoms of ovulation) are those that are seen by the examining person, for example, a doctor:

Cervix

During a gynecological examination in the ovulatory phase, the doctor may note that the cervix has softened somewhat, the cervical canal has opened slightly, and the cervix itself has risen upward.

Edema

Swelling of the extremities, more often the legs, indicates a change in the production of FSH for the production of LH and is visible not only to the woman herself, but also to her relatives and the doctor.

Allocations

With ovulation, vaginal discharge also changes its character. If in the first phase of the cycle a woman does not notice spots on her underwear, which is associated with a thick plug that clogs the cervical canal and prevents infectious agents from entering the uterine cavity, then the secretions change in the ovulatory stage. The mucus in the cervical canal liquefies and becomes viscous and stringy, which is necessary to facilitate the penetration of sperm into the uterine cavity. In appearance, cervical mucus resembles egg white, stretches up to 7-10 cm and leaves noticeable stains on the linen.

Admixture of blood in the secretions

Another of the characteristic objective, but optional signs of ovulation. Blood in the discharge appears in very small quantities, so a woman may not even notice this symptom. One or two drops of blood enter the fallopian tube, then into the uterus and into the cervical canal after the rupture of the dominant follicle. Follicle rupture is always accompanied by damage to the tunica albuginea and the release of a small amount of blood into the abdominal cavity.

Basal temperature

This symptom can only be detected by a woman who regularly maintains a basal temperature chart. On the eve of ovulation, there is a slight (0.1 - 0.2 degrees) temperature drop, and during the rupture of the follicle and after the temperature rises and remains at levels above 37 degrees.

Ultrasound data

An increase in the size of the dominant follicle and its subsequent rupture are reliably determined using ultrasound.

After ovulation

Some women, especially those who use the calendar method of contraception, are interested in symptoms after ovulation. In this way, women calculate "safe" days for unwanted pregnancies. These signs are very uncharacteristic and may coincide with early symptoms pregnancy:

Vaginal discharge

As soon as the egg is released from the main follicle and died (its life span is 24, maximum 48 hours), the discharge from the genital tract also changes. Vaginal leucorrhoea loses its transparency, becomes milky, possibly interspersed with small lumps, sticky and does not stretch well (see).

Pain

Within one to two days after the end of ovulation, discomfort and minor pains in the lower abdomen disappear.

Libido

Sexual attraction is also gradually fading away, since now it makes no sense for sperm to meet with an egg, it has already died.

Basal temperature

If at the time of the rupture of the Graafian bubble, the basal temperature is significantly higher than 37 degrees, then after ovulation it decreases by several tenths of a degree, although it remains above 37 degrees. This sign is unreliable, since even when conception occurs, the basal temperature will be above the 37-degree mark. The only difference is that by the end of the second phase (before the onset of menstruation), the temperature will drop to 37 degrees and below.

Acne

On the eve and at the time of ovulation, hormonal changes occur in the body, which affects the condition of the skin of the face - acne appears. Once ovulation is over, the rash will gradually disappear.

Ultrasound data

An ultrasound scan allows you to remove the dominant follicle that has fallen asleep in the form of a rupture, a small amount of fluid in the posterior space, and the later forming corpus luteum. Ultrasound data are most indicative in the case of a dynamic study (maturation of follicles, determination of a dominant follicle and its subsequent rupture).

Signs of conception

Before talking about the signs of pregnancy after ovulation, it is worth understanding the terms "fertilization" and "conception". Fertilization, that is, the meeting of the egg with the sperm, takes place in the fallopian tube, from where the fertilized egg is sent to the uterus. In the uterine cavity, the fertilized egg selects the most convenient place and is attached to the uterine wall, that is, implanted. After the implantation has occurred, a close connection is established between the mother's body and the zygote (future embryo), which is supported by a change in hormonal levels. The process of securely fixing the zygote in the uterine cavity is called conception. That is, if fertilization has taken place, but implantation has not yet occurred, this is not called pregnancy, and some sources indicate such a term as "biological pregnancy". Until the zygote is securely anchored in the thickness of the endometrium, it can be expelled from the uterus at the same time as menstrual flow, which is called a very early miscarriage or termination of biological pregnancy.

It is very difficult to determine the signs of conception, especially for an inexperienced woman, and appear about 10 to 14 days after ovulation:

Basal temperature

At possible pregnancy basal temperature remains at a high level, about 37.5 degrees and does not decrease before the expected period.

Implant retraction

If in the second phase of the cycle after ovulation, the basal temperature remains elevated (more than 37) almost until the onset of menstruation, then at the time of the introduction of the zygote into the uterine mucosa, it slightly decreases, which is called implantation retraction. A similar depression is characterized by a mark below 37 degrees, and the next day by a sharp jump in temperature (more than 37 and higher than it was after ovulation).

Implant bleeding

When a fertilized egg tries to settle in the thickness of the uterine lining, it destroys it somewhat and damages nearby small vessels. Therefore, the implantation process, but not necessarily, is accompanied by small bleeding, which can be seen in the form of pinkish spots on the underwear, or one or two drops of blood.

Change in well-being

From the moment of implantation, a shift in the hormonal background occurs, which is manifested by lethargy, apathy, possibly irritability and tearfulness, increased appetite, a change in taste and olfactory sensations. Also on early stages pregnancy, a slightly increased body temperature can be noted, which is associated with the influence of hormones (progesterone) on the center of thermoregulation. This phenomenon is absolutely normal for pregnancy and is aimed at suppressing the immunity of the mother's body and preventing miscarriage. Many women take a rise in temperature and a deterioration in well-being for the first signs of ARVI.

Discomfort in the lower abdomen

Several unpleasant sensations or even cramps in the lower abdomen for one, maximum two days are also associated with the implantation of a zygote and are absolutely physiological.

Mammary gland

Hypersensitivity, swelling and soreness in the mammary glands persists after ovulation is complete. The possibility of conception is indicated by a slight increase in these symptoms.

Delayed menstruation

If your period hasn't started, it's time to do a pregnancy test and make sure you are right.

When does ovulation occur and how long does it take?

All women are interested in when ovulation occurs, because this is important for calculating favorable days for conception or for preventing unwanted pregnancy. As already indicated, the ovulatory period is the time that lasts from the moment of rupture of the main follicle until a full-fledged egg enters the fallopian tube, where it has every chance of being fertilized.

It is impossible to determine the exact duration of the ovulatory period, due to the fact that even in a particular woman it can change in each cycle (lengthen or shorten). On average, the entire process takes 16 - 32 hours. It is the process, not the viability of the egg. But with the lifespan of the released "free" egg, it is easier, and this time is 12 - 48 hours.

But if the life span of the egg is short enough, then the sperm, on the contrary, retain their activity for up to 7 days. That is, if sexual intercourse took place on the eve of ovulation (for a day or two), then it is quite possible to fertilize a "fresh" egg with spermatozoa that "waited" for it in the tube and did not lose their activity at all. It is on this fact that the calendar method of protection is based, that is, the calculation of dangerous days (3 days before ovulation and 3 days after).

When comes

Determine the days of ovulation, but approximately, a simple calculation will help. Ovulation occurs at the end of the first phase of the cycle (follicular). To know on what day a certain woman ovulates, she needs to know the length of her cycle ( it comes on regular cycles).

The duration of the follicular phase is different for everyone and ranges from 10 to 18 days. But the duration of the second phase is always the same for all women and corresponds to 14 days. To determine ovulation, it is enough to subtract 14 days from the entire length of the menstrual cycle. As a result, it turns out that if the cycle lasts 28 days (minus 14), we get the 14th day of the cycle, which will mean the approximate day of the release of the egg from the follicle.

Or the cycle lasts 32 days, minus 14 - we get an approximate 18 day of the cycle - the day of ovulation. Why, speaking of such a simple calculation, is it called approximate? Because the menstrual cycle, and even more so the ovulation that occurs, is a very sensitive process and depends on many factors. For example, ovulation can happen prematurely (early) or late (late).

The onset of early rupture of the follicle and release of the egg can be triggered by the following factors:

• significant stress;
• lifting weights;
• significant sports loads;
• frequent coitus;
• harmful production;
• common cold;
• change in climate, lifestyle or diet;
• excessive smoking or alcohol intake;
• sleep disturbance;
• disruption in the hormonal background;
• taking medications.

They say about late ovulation if it happens (with a 28-day cycle) on days 18-20. The reasons for this process are the same as the factors that provoke the early rupture of the main follicle.

How to calculate ovulation

All women need to know how to calculate ovulation, especially those who have long and unsuccessfully tried to get pregnant. For this purpose, there are several developed methods for determining ovulation. All methods can be conditionally divided into "biological" and "official", that is, laboratory-instrumental.

Calendar method

• the duration of the cycle (it should not be too short, for example, 21 days and not very long, 35 days) - the optimal duration is 28 - 30 days;
• regularity - ideally, menstruation should come "day to day", but a deviation of +/- 2 days is allowed;
• the nature of menstrual flow - menstruation should be moderate, without clots and no more than 5 - 6 days, and from cycle to cycle the nature of the discharge should not change.

We subtract 14 from the cycle length (the length of the luteal phase) and conventionally take ovulation as a day (it can shift). We mark the calculated date on the calendar and add 2 days to 2 days after - these days are also considered favorable for fertilization.

Basal temperature

A more reliable method is the method of calculating ovulation from the basal temperature graph. To calculate favorable days for conception, the following conditions must be met:

• measurement of the basal, that is, in the rectum, temperature for at least three months;
• scheduling (this item is required) basal temperature;
• take measurements in the morning, after a night's sleep, at the same time and without getting out of bed.

According to the compiled schedule, we mark the first phase of the cycle, during which the temperature will stay below 37 degrees, then a pre-ovulatory decrease during the day (by 0.1 - 0.2 degrees), a sharp jump in temperature (by 0.4 - 0.5 degrees) and the subsequent stay of the temperature in the mode above 37 degrees (second phase). A sharp jump will be considered the day of the release of the egg from the graafian bubble. We mark this day on the calendar and also do not forget about 2 days to 2 days after.

Ovulation tests

Special tests to detect the ovulatory process can be easily purchased at any pharmacy (see). The action of the tests is based on the identification high level luteinizing hormone in any body fluid (blood, urine or saliva). A positive test indicates the release of a mature egg from the ovary and its readiness to conceive.

Gynecological examination

When conducting a gynecological examination, the doctor can reliably detect signs of ovulation using functional diagnostic tests. The first is a method for determining the extensibility of cervical mucus. Kornzang captures mucus from the external throat of the neck, and then its branches are divorced. If the mucus is viscous and the dilution of the jaws reaches 10 cm or more, this is considered one of the symptoms of ovulation. The second is the "pupil method". The increasing mucus in the cervical canal stretches it, including the external pharynx, and it becomes ajar and round, like a pupil. If the external pharynx is narrowed and there is practically no mucus in it ("dry" neck), then this indicates the absence of ovulation (it has already passed).

Ultrasound - measurement of the follicle

This method allows you to establish with a 100% guarantee whether ovulation has occurred or not. In addition, with the help of ultrasound folliculometry, you can draw up your own menstrual cycle and ovulation calendar and find out about its approach or completion. Typical ultrasound signs of impending ovulation:

• the growth of the main follicle plus the expansion of the cervical canal;
• identification of the main follicle that is about to rupture;
• control of the corpus luteum, which is formed at the site of a bursting follicle, identification of fluid in the posterior space, which indicates that ovulation has occurred.

Hormonal method

This method is based on determining the amount of estrogen and progesterone in the blood. The latter begins to stand out in the second phase of the cycle, when the formed corpus luteum begins to function. Approximately 7 days after the release of the egg from the ovary, progesterone in the blood rises, which confirms that ovulation has taken place. And the day before ovulation and on its day, the level of estrogen decreases significantly. The method is laborious and requires repeated donations of blood and finances.

Lack of ovulation

If there is no ovulation, this is called anovulation. It is clear that in the absence of ovulation, pregnancy becomes impossible. It should be noted that a healthy woman of childbearing age has up to two to three anovulatory cycles per year, which is considered normal. But if there is no ovulation all the time, then they talk about chronic anovulation and you should look for the causes of this condition, since the woman is diagnosed with "Infertility". The causes of chronic anovulation include:

• diseases thyroid gland;
• being overweight or obese;
• polycystic ovary disease;
• diabetes;
• lack of weight;
• hyperprolactinemia;
• ovarian dysfunction;
• chronic inflammation of the ovaries;
• endometriosis of the ovaries and uterus (hormonal disturbance in general);
• constant stress;
• excessive physical activity (sports, household);
• harmful working conditions;
• adrenal pathology;
• tumors of the pituitary gland or hypothalamus and other pathologies.

The following factors can lead to temporary (transient) anovulation:

• pregnancy, which is natural, there is no menstrual cycle, there is no ovulation;
• breastfeeding (more often, against the background of lactation, menstruation is absent, but it may be, but the cycle is usually anovulatory);
• premenopause (the ovarian function is fading away, so the cycles will be more anovulatory than ovulatory);
• taking contraceptive pills;
• stress;
• adherence to a certain diet for weight loss;
• an increase in body weight or a sharp decrease in it;
• change in the usual environment;
• climate change;
• changing the usual working conditions.

If there is no ovulation - what to do? First of all, you should consult a doctor who will find out what caused this condition, and how serious it is (chronic or temporary anovulation). If the anovulation is temporary, the doctor will recommend adjusting your diet, stop worrying and avoid stress, change your job (for example, related to night shifts to daytime), and take vitamins.

In the case of chronic anovulation, the gynecologist will definitely prescribe an additional examination:

• sex hormones (estrogens, progesterone, prolactin, testosterone, FSH and LH) and adrenal and thyroid hormones;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs;
• colposcopy (according to indications);
• hysteroscopy (according to indications);
• diagnostic laparoscopy.

Depending on the identified cause, appropriate treatment is also prescribed, the final stage of which is the stimulation of ovulation. Basically, clostilbegit or clomiphene is used to stimulate ovulation, as a rule, in combination with gonadotropic hormones (Menopur, Gonal-F). Stimulation of ovulation is carried out within three menstrual cycles, and in the absence of an effect, the stimulation cycle is repeated after three cycles.

Question answer

Yes, such online calendars are quite suitable for calculating ovulation days, but their effectiveness reaches only 30%, which is based on the calendar method for determining ovulation.

Question:
With an irregular cycle, will there be chronic anovulation?

Yes, an irregular cycle is more often anovulatory, although this is controversial. Even if your periods "jump" every month, ovulation is possible, but, as a rule, not in the middle of the cycle, but at the beginning or at the end.

This method is unreliable and scientifically not confirmed, but there is a hypothesis that "female" spermatozoa, that is, those that contain the X chromosome, are more tenacious, but slower. Therefore, in order to give birth to a girl, it is necessary to have sexual intercourse two to three days before the expected ovulation. It is during this time that the slow X-sperm will reach the released egg and fertilize it. If you have sexual intercourse at the peak of ovulation, then the fast "male" sperm will outstrip the female and there will be a boy.

Again, the method is unreliable. Spermatozoa containing the Y-chromosome or “male, are more nimble and mobile, but very sensitive to the acidic environment in the vagina, so sexual intercourse should take place on the day of ovulation, which must be confirmed by ultrasound. Despite their activity, "male" spermatozoa die very quickly, but if coitus was on the day of ovulation, their death will not occur yet, and "male" sperm will reach the egg cell faster than the "female" ones and fertilize it.

Question:
I am involved in professional sports. Can this be the reason for the lack of ovulation?

Sure. Professional sports loads are very significant, which not only leads to persistent anovulation, but also to malfunctions of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-ovarian system. Therefore, you have to choose, either professional sports and fame, or the birth of a child.

What is ovulation? How not to miss the right moment for conception? Everything is very simple - we are guided by the signs and symptoms of ovulation, we use basal temperature, an ovulation test and folk remedies - and pregnancy is in our pocket!

Ovulation: what is it?

Ovulation(from the Latin ovum - egg) is one of the stages of the menstrual cycle, which is the process of rupture of a mature follicle with the release of a mature, capable of fertilization egg from the ovary into the abdominal cavity.

The ovulation process is controlled by the hypothalamus by regulating (through gonadotropin-releasing hormone) the release of hormones secreted by the anterior pituitary gland: LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone). In the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, before ovulation, the ovarian follicle grows under the influence of FSH. When the follicle reaches a certain size and functional activity, under the influence of estrogens secreted by the follicle, an ovulatory LH peak is formed, which triggers the "maturation" of the egg. After maturation, a rupture forms in the follicle, through which the egg leaves the follicle - this is ovulation... It takes about 36 to 48 hours between the ovulatory peak of LH and ovulation. During the post-ovulation phase of the corpus luteum, the egg usually travels along the fallopian tube towards the uterus. If during ovulation the fertilization of the egg occurs, then on the 6-12th day the zygote enters the uterine cavity and the implantation process takes place. If conception does not occur, the egg dies in the fallopian tube within 12-24 hours.

Ovulation and conception

When does ovulation occur?

Average ovulation occurs on the fourteenth day of the menstrual cycle(on a 28-day cycle). However, deviation from the mean is common and is to some extent the norm. The length of the menstrual cycle alone is not a reliable source of information about the day of ovulation. Although usually with a shorter cycle, ovulation occurs earlier, and with a longer cycle, later.

The ovulation rhythm, which is constant for every woman, undergoes changes within 3 months after an abortion, within a year after childbirth, and also after 40 years, when the body is preparing for the premenopausal period. Physiologically, ovulation stops with the onset of pregnancy, and after the extinction of menstrual function.

How does ovulation and conception work?

The female body is endowed with two ovaries located on either side of the uterus. The ovaries produce hormones, the most famous of which are estrogen and progesterone.

The ovaries contain eggs even at the stage of the girl's intrauterine development. In the two ovaries of a newborn, there are hundreds of thousands of eggs. True, all of them are inactive until the onset of puberty and the first ovulation, that is, until about 12 years old. During this time, a certain number of cells die, but 300,000 - 400,000 full-fledged eggs remain. From the moment of the first ovulation to the onset of menopause, a woman will experience from 300 to 400 menstrual cycles, as a result of which the same number of oocytes will mature, capable of becoming fertilized. During the menstrual cycle, one of many eggs matures in the ovaries.

Under the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) of the pituitary gland - an endocrine gland on the lower surface of the brain, a follicle (sac) with an egg selected for ovulation in this cycle begins to grow. The follicle diameter at the beginning of the cycle does not exceed 1 mm, and after 2 weeks it reaches 20 mm. As the follicle grows, a bulge forms on the surface of the ovary, which by the middle of the cycle increases to the size of a grape. The follicle contains fluid and a small nucleolus 0.1 mm in diameter.

The period of maturation of the egg until its exit from the ovary can last from 8 days to a month, although on average it lasts about 2 weeks. The main factor affecting the duration of this process is the time it takes for the body to reach the limiting level of estrogen. The high estrogen content stimulates a sharp increase in the content of luteostimulating hormone (LH), which causes the egg to break through the wall of the ovary within one to two days after a sharp rise in its level. In the middle of the cycle, about 12 days after the onset of menstruation, the pituitary gland releases large amounts of luteinizing hormone (LH), and about 36 hours after that, ovulation occurs.

Chromosomes located in the nucleus of cells are carriers of the genetic code. The purpose of fertilization is the fusion of two sex cells (gametes) originating from individuals of different sexes. All cells in the human body contain 46 chromosomes. Therefore, two gametes must form a new cell, which also contains 46 chromosomes. A simple addition would result in 92 chromosomes, but this would lead to a biological error, the consequence of which would be the termination of the genus. Consequently, each of the partners must halve their number of chromosomes (up to 23). In the egg, the reduction in the number of chromosomes occurs after the pituitary gland secretes luteinizing hormone a few hours before ovulation. For such a transformation, 20 - 36 hours are enough for her. Preparing itself to receive the sperm, the egg pushes to the periphery, into a small sac, called the first polar body, half of its chromosomes. The meeting with the sperm must take place at a strictly defined time. If this happens earlier, the egg will not be ready to receive the sperm, since it will not have time to divide its chromosomes; if - later, then she runs the risk of missing the period of maximum readiness for fertilization.

The following 14 days after ovulation, the second part of the cycle, take place in preparation for the conception of the uterine mucosa. All preparation is in vain if conception has not occurred, and its biological consequences will pass along with menstrual bleeding. But in one of the ovaries, a new egg is already preparing for ovulation.

What happens after ovulation during conception?

The egg released from the follicle, having carried out the reduction of chromosomes, enters the fallopian tubes, which are connected with the ovary with their soft fringes. The fringes resemble an opened flower at the end of the stem. And its living petals capture an egg on the move. The fusion of the egg and sperm usually occurs in the fallopian tube itself.

The fallopian tube is a cylindrical muscular organ, inside it is lined with a mucous membrane covered with villi and containing glands that produce secretions. This structure facilitates the movement of the egg and (if fertilization has occurred) the embryo into the uterus.

To fertilize an egg, sperm must enter the body at about the same time that the egg leaves the follicle. It may seem like this is easy to achieve, but the egg after ovulation lives for only 24 hours or less, and the sperm remains capable of fertilizing it for only a few days. Thus, intercourse must take place at your most appropriate time if you want to get pregnant.

Thus, ovulation period- the most successful period for conceiving a child. In this regard, it is important to be able to determine when ovulation occurs... You can do this yourself at home, for example, by measuring your basal temperature. Also, special devices have been developed (for example, the ClearPlan Easy Fertility Monitor), which, by the content of hormones in urine analysis, are able to more accurately determine the moment of ovulation: ovulation tests. More precise definitions can be made in a clinical setting, for example, by ultrasound monitoring of the growth and development of the follicle and determining the moment of its rupture.

When planning conception naturally, in vitro fertilization and artificial insemination, one of the most important points is the moment of ovulation itself.

Ovulation symptoms:

How to determine ovulation?

Ovulation symptoms that a woman can notice without a doctor:

• short-term pain in the lower abdomen,
• increased sex drive.

During a gynecological examination during ovulation, an increase in the amount of mucus secreted from the cervical canal is observed. In addition, sometimes they use the extensibility, transparency of mucus, and also observe its crystallization, which can be done using a special microscope for home use.

The next most accurate method for determining ovulation is the measurement of basal temperature. An increase in mucous discharge from the vagina and a decrease in rectal (basal) temperature on the day of ovulation with an increase in it the next day most likely indicates ovulation. The basal temperature graph reflects the temperature effect of progesterone and indirectly (but quite accurately) allows you to determine the fact and day of ovulation.

All these listed signs of ovulation and methods for determining it give only approximate results.

Signs of ovulation, which the doctor states:

How to accurately recognize ovulation?
There are methods that help one hundred percent determine the moment of ovulation:

ultrasound observation (ultrasound) of the growth and development of the follicle and determination of the moment of its rupture (ovulation), see photo. Ultrasound monitoring of follicular maturation is the most accurate method for determining ovulation. After the end of menstruation, approximately on the 7th day of the cycle, the gynecologist performs an ultrasound scan using a vaginal probe. After that, the procedure should be carried out every 2-3 days to monitor the preparation of the endometrium. Thus, it is possible to predict the date of the onset of ovulation.

dynamic determination of luteinizing hormone (LH level) in urine. This method is simpler and can be applied at home using ovulation tests... Ovulation tests begin to be carried out 2 times a day, 5 - 6 days before the expected ovulation, strictly following the instructions.

Home ovulation test

Home ovulation tests work by determining rapid growth the amount of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the urine. A small amount of LH is always present in the urine, but 24-36 hours before ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), its concentration increases sharply.

Using ovulation tests

What day should you start testing? This day depends on the length of your cycle. The first day of your cycle is the day your period started. Cycle length is the number of days elapsed from the first day of the last menstrual period to the first day of the next.

If you have a constant cycle, then you need to start doing tests ~ 17 days before the start of the next menstruation, since the phase of the corpus luteum after ovulation lasts 12-16 days (on average, usually 14). For example, if the usual length of your cycle is 28 days, then testing should start from the 11th day, and if 35 - then from the 18th.

If your cycle length is different - choose the shortest cycle in the last 6 months and use its duration to calculate the day when to start testing. With very irregular cycles and delays of a month or more - using tests without additional monitoring of ovulation and follicles is not reasonable due to their high cost (when using tests every few days, ovulation can be skipped, and using these tests every day will not justify itself ).

With daily use or 2 times a day (morning and evening), these tests give nice results, especially in conjunction with ultrasound. With the simultaneous monitoring of ultrasound, you can not waste tests, but wait until the follicle reaches about 18-20 mm, when it is able to ovulate. Then you can start doing tests every day.

Performing an ovulation test

You can do an ovulation test at any time of the day, but you should stick to the same test time whenever possible. In this case, you should refrain from urinating for at least 4 hours before the test. Avoid excessive fluid intake before testing, as this can lead to a decrease in the amount of LH in the urine and reduce the reliability of the result.

Determination of ovulation using test strips: place the test strip in a jar of urine to the line indicated on the test for 5 seconds, put it on a clean, dry surface, watch the result after 10-20 seconds.

Determination of ovulation with a test device: With the tip of the absorbent pointing down, place it under the stream of urine for 5 seconds. You can also collect the urine in a clean, dry container and place the absorbent in the urine for 20 seconds. Keeping the tip of the absorbent pointing downward, draw the absorbent out of the urine. Now you can put the cap back on. The result can be seen in 3 minutes.

Ovulation test results

The results of determining ovulation by the test strip: 1 strip means that the increase in LH levels has not yet occurred, repeat the test after 24 hours. 2 strips - an increase in the LH level is recorded, the intensity of the strip next to the control indicates the amount of the hormone. Ovulation is possible when the intensity of the band is the same as that of the control or brighter.

Results of determining ovulation by the test device: Look in the result window and compare the result line to the left of the arrow on the body of the stick with the control line to the right. The line closest to the arrow on the body is the result line, which shows the level of LH in the urine. Further to the right of the arrow on the body of the stick is the control line. The control line is used for comparison with the result line. The control line always appears in the window if the test was carried out correctly.

If the result line is paler than the control line, then the LH surge has not yet occurred, and testing should be continued daily. If the result line is the same or darker than the control line, then the release of the hormone to the ear has occurred, and within 24-36 hours you will ovulate.

The most suitable 2 days for conception begin from the moment when you determine that the LH surge has already occurred. If intercourse occurs within the next 48 hours, your chance of getting pregnant is maximized. Once you have determined that a blowout has occurred, it is no longer necessary to continue testing.

Types of ovulation tests

The most common are disposable test strips to determine ovulation, similar to pregnancy tests, their price is not high.

There are also devices for determining ovulation, which are gradually replacing expensive one-time tests, they also accurately determine the moment of ovulation, but they are also multifunctional and more economical, they do not need to be changed every time after use and they are designed for many years of work.

Tests allow you to accurately determine ovulation, experts associate the existing errors in the results of ovulation tests only with their incorrect use.

Thus, by combining several methods to determine the moment of ovulation, you can track the long-awaited ovulation with a 100% guarantee. Indeed, it is on these days that the chance of successful conception is the highest: there is ovulation - conception is possible.

Ovulation calendar

Using ovulation data on a basal temperature chart or tests for at least 3 months, you can create an ovulation calendar. The calendar allows you to predict the day of the next ovulation, thus it is possible to plan conception and pregnancy.

Ovulation and pregnancy

In a woman, a few days before and after the moment of ovulation represent the fertile phase in which conception and pregnancy are most likely.

Different women have a noticeable difference in the timing of ovulation. And even for the same woman, the exact timing of the onset of ovulation fluctuates in different months. Menstrual cycles may be longer or shorter than average and may be irregular. In rare cases, it happens that in women with a very short cycle, ovulation occurs around the end of the period of menstrual bleeding, but still, in most cases, ovulation occurs regularly at the same time.

Not only the actual conception of the child, but also his gender depends on the time of conception in relation to the time of the onset of ovulation. Immediately at the time of ovulation, there is a high probability of conceiving a boy, while before and after ovulation, it is more likely to get a girl. This is explained by the fact that sperm with the Y chromosome (boys) are faster, but live shorter and less stable in an acidic environment before ovulation than with the XX set (girls). If the egg is already coming towards fresh sperm, the "boys" will reach it faster. If the sperm "waits" for an egg for a long time, most of the sperm remain in it for the conception of a girl.

The likelihood of conception and pregnancy is generally highest on the day of ovulation. and is estimated at about 33%. A high probability of pregnancy is also noted on the day before ovulation - 31%, two days before it - 27%. Five days before ovulation, the probability of conception and pregnancy is 10% in four days - 14% and in three days - 16%. Six days before ovulation and the day after it, the likelihood of conception and pregnancy during intercourse is very small.

Considering that the average "lifespan" of sperm is 2-3 days (in rare cases it reaches 5-7 days), and the female egg remains viable for about 12-24 hours, then the maximum duration of the fertile period is 6-9 days and the fertile period corresponds to the phase of slow rise (6-7 days) and fast decline (1-2 days) before and after the day of ovulation, respectively. Ovulation divides the menstrual cycle into two phases: the maturation phase of the follicle, which when average duration the cycle is 10-16 days and the luteal phase (the phase of the corpus luteum), which is stable, independent of the duration of the menstrual cycle and is 12-16 days. The phase of the corpus luteum is referred to the period of absolute infertility, it begins 1-2 days after ovulation and ends with the onset of a new menstruation. If, for one reason or another, ovulation does not occur, the endometrial layer in the uterus is thrown out during menstruation.

Stimulation of ovulation

Lack of ovulation is one of the most common causes of infertility.

Ovulation disorder is caused by dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian system and can be caused by inflammation of the genitals, dysfunction of the adrenal cortex or thyroid gland, systemic diseases, tumors of the pituitary and hypothalamus, intracranial pressure, stressful situations. Violation of ovulation can be hereditary (first of all, it is a tendency to certain diseases that interfere with ovulation). Anovulation - the absence of ovulation in childbearing age - is manifested by a violation of the rhythm of menstruation by the type of oligomenorrhea (menstruation lasting 1-2 days), amenorrhea, dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Lack of ovulation is always the cause of a woman's infertility.

One of the most common causes of infertility is the lack of ovulation, most often due to hormonal imbalance, which, in turn, can occur against the background of stress, brain injury, abortion, etc. To treat this condition, a complex of hormonal drugs that stimulate ovulation and cause superovulation is used, when several eggs ripen in the ovaries at the same time, which increases the chances of fertilization, and is widely used in the IVF procedure.

Another cause of infertility may be, for example, the insufficiency of the luteal phase - NLF, when ovulation has occurred, and the concentration of progesterone in the second phase of menstruation is insufficient for implantation of the embryo into the uterus. In this case, treatment is carried out aimed at stimulating the function of the corpus luteum of the ovary and increasing the content of progesterone in the blood. However, the correction of NLF is not always successful, since this condition is often associated with other gynecological diseases and requires careful examination.

If a woman has a violation of the process of follicle maturation and, accordingly, ovulation, ovulation is stimulated. For this, special medications are prescribed - ovulation inducers. Prescribing drugs leads to the stimulation of the development of one or more eggs in patients, which will then be ready for fertilization. Before the appointment of such a serious therapy, the whole complex of tests is carried out, which allows you to determine the level of hormones in a woman. In addition to the use of ovulation stimulation, regular ultrasound diagnostics are also carried out. After the onset of ovulation, if nevertheless it is not possible to become pregnant naturally, the patient undergoes intrauterine insemination or IVF. There is a big difference in the method of ovulation stimulation for IVF and for natural conception: in the first case, they achieve the maturation of several eggs, in the second - 1, maximum 2x.

Preparations for stimulating ovulation

The most commonly used drugs to stimulate ovulation are Clostilbegit and drugs of gonadotropic hormones.

Preparations of gonadotropic hormones contain hormones of the endocrine gland of the pituitary gland - gonadotropins. These are follicle-stimulating hormone - FSH and luteinizing hormone - LH. These hormones regulate the process of follicle maturation and ovulation in a woman's body and are secreted by the pituitary gland in certain days menstrual cycle. Therefore, when prescribing drugs containing these hormones, follicle maturation and ovulation occur.

These drugs include Menopur (contains the hormones FSH and LH) and Gonal-F (contains the hormone FSH).

The drugs are available in injectable form, injected intramuscularly or subcutaneously.

How is ovulation stimulated?

Various schemes are used to stimulate ovulation, depending on the type of ovulation disorder and the duration of the disorder. When using the scheme with Klostilbegit, the latter is prescribed from 5 to 9 days of the menstrual cycle. A combination of this drug with gonadotropins is often used. In this case, Clostilbegit is prescribed from 3 to 7 days of the menstrual cycle with the addition of Menopur (Puregon) on certain days.

When stimulating ovulation, it is very important to conduct ultrasound monitoring, that is, to control the maturation of the follicle on an ultrasound machine. This allows you to make adjustments to the treatment regimen, to avoid this in a timely manner. side effect stimulation like the growth of multiple follicles. The frequency of ultrasound examinations during the treatment program is on average 2-3 times. During each examination (monitoring), the number of growing follicles is counted, their diameter is measured and the thickness of the uterine lining is determined.

When the leading follicle reaches a diameter of 18 millimeters, the doctor may prescribe the drug Pregnyl, which completes the final process of egg maturation and induces ovulation (direct release of the egg from the follicle). Ovulation after the introduction of Pregnyl occurs within 24-36 hours. Depending on the type of marital infertility during ovulation, either intrauterine insemination with the sperm of the husband or donor is performed, or the time of intercourse is calculated.

Depending on the duration and cause of infertility, the age of the woman, the pregnancy rate per attempt is 10-15%.

Conditions for stimulating ovulation:

1. Examination of a married couple.
Analysis list:
HIV (both spouses)
Syphilis (both spouses)
Hepatitis B (both spouses)
Hepatitis C (both spouses)
Cleanliness smear (woman)
Bacteriological cultures: chlamydia, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, Trichomonas, candida, gardnerella (both spouses)
Oncocytology smear (woman)
The conclusion of the therapist about the possibility of carrying a pregnancy
Breast ultrasound
A blood test for antibodies to rubella, that is, the presence of immunity (protection) in a woman

2. Passable fallopian tubes.
Since fertilization takes place in the fallopian tube ("Physiology of Conception"), patentable fallopian tubes are an important condition for pregnancy. Evaluation of the patency of the fallopian tubes can be carried out in several ways:

• Laparoscopy
• Transvaginal hydrolaparoscopy
• Metrosalpingography

Since each method has its own indications, the choice of method is determined jointly by you and your attending physician at the appointment.

3. Absence of intrauterine pathology
Any deviations from the side of the uterine cavity prevent the onset of pregnancy ("Intrauterine pathology"). Therefore, if a woman has indications of trauma to the uterine mucosa (curettage of the uterine cavity during abortion and bleeding, inflammation of the uterine mucosa - endometritis, intrauterine device and other factors), hysteroscopy is recommended to assess the state of the uterine cavity ("Hysteroscopy").

4. Satisfactory semen quality
Satisfactory sperm quality - absence of male factor of infertility. In the event that intrauterine insemination is not planned, a postcoital test ("Postcoital test") is recommended before ovulation stimulation.

5. Absence of an acute inflammatory process
Absence of an acute inflammatory process of any localization. Any inflammatory disease is a contraindication for many diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in medicine, since it carries the risk of worsening the patient's condition.

Folk remedies to stimulate ovulation are best used only in consultation with your doctor.

Photo of ovulation taken during IVF operation

The 3rd photo shows that several eggs have matured (after preliminary stimulation of ovulation).

Ovulation: what is it in simple words and when it happens

The reproductive period takes up almost half of a woman's life. It lasts on average from 11-12 years, when a teenage girl has her first menstruation, up to 48-50 years, when menopause is established. And all this time, the body is patiently, from month to month, preparing to accept and nurture the future new person.

"Taking out" new and new follicles from the ovarian reserves, the woman's body releases eggs from them. This process is called "ovulation". Let's take a closer look at some points.

What is ovulation in girls

Ovulation occurs once a month in every female if she:

• not pregnant;
• does not breastfeed;
• has no problems with hormones;
• does not take birth control pills.

Perhaps the wording of the question is a little incorrect - ovulation occurs not only in young girls, but also in mature women, until the period of menopause has begun. What is ovulation and when it occurs is a question to which a gynecologist or gynecologist-endocrinologist will give the clearest and most detailed answer. How does it manifest itself?

If we touch slightly on the field of biology, then the whole process looks like this.

What many consider to be the end of the menstrual cycle - regular bleeding - is actually the beginning of the ovulatory cycle. On the day when bloody discharge appears on the pad, indicating the rejection of the "extra" layer of the endometrium, several small - the so-called antral - follicles begin to mature slowly. The stock of them in the body of a newborn girl approaches a million, but steadily decreases throughout her life. Most follicles do not reach maturity. Having begun to grow on the first day of a new cycle, they undergo atresia and dissolve, with the exception of 1 or 2.

About 8-9 days on ultrasound, 5-10 antral follicles in each ovary are already visible. At the same time, the dominant is determined, that is, the largest. He is destined to burst on the 12-14 day of the cycle, release an egg and turn into. The process of egg formation and release is called ovulation.

This is the most favorable time for, dangerous for those who do not plan to expand their family, and favorable for those who want to become parents.

Early ovulation occurs on the 11-12th day of the cycle. comes to 19-20 days. Both cases are not something different from the norm, because many factors affect the menstrual cycle of women:

• changing of the living place;
• stress;
• any diseases;
• taking medications;

Sometimes ovulation during these periods constantly occurs in a woman. If at the same time fertility is preserved, there are no diseases of a hormonal nature or genital area, then there is no need to worry: it means that this is the individual norm for this woman.

Ovulation day

The day of ovulation is "day X", which becomes the starting point for a new life, if it is destined to arise.

In adolescent girls, ovulation cycles do not start immediately. If menstruation begins early, around 11 years of age, the entire first year may consist of anovulatory cycles. This should not cause concern: the "dance" of hormones has not yet subsided, the body has not adjusted the mechanism by which it will work properly before menopause.

However, this does not mean that young girls need not worry about the need for contraception: ovulation can happen any month. Not always (especially at first) and not every girl will be able to feel the distinctive signs of ovulation: it does not manifest itself in any way, because it is not a disease, but a natural process, and it can often only be tracked by ultrasound and by jumps in basal temperature. But more on that later.

Gynecologists seek to stimulate ovulation by injecting drugs. hCG acts, which is injected intramuscularly when the follicle has already become dominant, but has not yet reached its maximum. This gives an impulse to the oocyte to mature and break away from the wall of the ovarian follicle. After an injection of hCG, ovulation occurs in about 36-48 hours.

Such an injection can be given to the patient before, so as not to miss the time most suitable for the injection of sperm from the husband or donor.