How to Chart and Predict Ovulation - Ovulation Tests and Symptoms

One of the broader indicators of the ovulation is the length of the cycle. It is different in every woman and the generalizations show only the normal limits and time frames of a typical menstrual cycle.

If you want to calculate your ovulation days you need to follow particular steps:

1. Record the data and numbers of your menstrual cycle for some months. Using an ovulation calendar can be helpful so as to have everything written. The recommended time is 4-5 months at least, because that will give you a rather accurate idea of what is happening in your body every month and what you are supposed to expect.

2. Calculate the days each month. You need to write down both the longest and the shortest cycle length, because not all women have a cycle of 28 days and even if you do, in some cases the cycle is influenced and affected by several other factors. Once you have the longest and shortest cycle you need to subtract eighteen days from the long one and approximately 10 from the short one, so as to have a rough idea of the dynamics of your cycle.

3. Observe the cervical mucus. One of the main ovulation symptoms is the change of the cervical mucus. Most women do not pay attention on that, but their mucus changes completely. After the end of the menstruation, the mucus is relatively dry, but a few days later it will become a little tackier. Closer – and during – the ovulation, the mucus becomes white and has the consistency of the egg white, being slippery and shiny. Once ovulation is over, the mucus becomes dry again. Usually women that notice this change take an ovulation test during the changes, so as to increase the possibilities of a pregnancy. Mucus is one of the main factors that affect fertility, so it’s really accurate method to check your fertile days, much more than a simple ovulation calculator.