Ovulation Kit: How to Choose the Right Fertility Predictor

Women who are looking for ways to monitor their fertility can definitely use an ovulation testing kit for accurate results. Sometimes, trying to conceive gives you anxiety and the correct knowledge of your pregnancy brings great relief. The right fertility predictor can predict the release of an egg within hours or days. Since it takes up to 24 hours for an egg to be fertilized, an ovulation kit is a safe option to monitor fertility.

What is the role of an ovulation kit?

An ovulation predictor kit (OPK) or simply an ovulation kit is an equipment that tests urine samples to detect the surge of luteinizing hormone (LH). Since the surge occurs before the release of an egg, it indicates an approaching ovulation. With this test, you have a clear idea of your intercourse timeline if you’re planning to conceive. An ovulation predictor kit has been identified by the sector of medicine as among the most trusted ways to detect LH surges. An ovulation kit generally has a control line and a test line. While the control line indicates the working condition of the kit, the test line indicates the surge in LH, usually denoted by the same color or a shade darker than that of the control line.

What are the available options of ovulation kits?

1. Fertility Monitors: These are electronic devices to detect the LH and estrogen levels in urine. They project the peak of fertility in each cycle. By recording the ovulation cycle, these kits assist in identifying the maximum chances for fertilization. In case your menstruation cycles are irregular, then it is advised that you use the shortest cycle to decide when to take the test.
2. Saliva Testing: This is another easy method for determining the probable time for fertility. There are some evident changes in the saliva just before ovulation, studying which can identify the increased level of estrogen. A dried saliva sample is tested in this scenario. In case of a positive result, the pattern resembles fern leaves.
   
   

How to use Ovulation kits?

The best way to use these kits accurately is to thoroughly read the instructions given in the kit. However, below are some general ways for using the kits-

1.  Urine-based kit:

•   Collect your urine sample during the same time each day.
•   Avoid taking too much fluid before the test as it may dilute the urine.
•   Take out the test card.
•   The arrows in the strip must point downward when you hold it.
•   Upon dipping the strip for 1/ 4 inch into the urine, wait for at least five seconds.
•   Do not dip beyond the “stop” line.
•   Read the results within the time prescribed in the instructions.
•   Note that in the case of a positive result, the colour will not fade. However, in the case of a negative result, the colour may fade gradually.
•   Do not reuse the test stick.

      2. Saliva test kit:

•   Take a slide and put a drop of saliva to dry (let it dry for at least 5 minutes)
•   Do not eat/ drink/ smoke before the test.
•   Put the slide under the microscope for observation.
•   Wear gloves so that the sample is not tampered.
•   If you observe a fern-like pattern, it indicates an approaching ovulation (the patterns appear before 3-5 days from ovulation)
•   This is a way to detect the salt and estrogen levels in the saliva.
  
  

 Are ovulation kits reliable?

 OPKs are known to detect the LH surge before approaching ovulation with utmost accuracy. The results are 99% reliable. However, some women have experienced a surge in LH without the release of an egg. In such a scenario, a positive result wouldn’t mean that ovulation is approaching.

 What to keep in mind to avoid negative ovulation test results?

 If you are endlessly waiting for a positive result in your ovulation test, it may be tiresome at times. The best way to tackle such situations would be to consult your doctor. Nonetheless, you should definitely keep the following points in mind to avoid negative results:

•   Do not test too early/ late (an LH surge occurs between 24–48 hours from ovulation)

•   Remember that an LH surge may not last beyond 10 hours

•   If you test only once a day, there are high chances of you missing the LH surge

•   Do the test twice a day, 10 hours apart

•   Start your tests roughly 17 days before your period begins or 3 days before the ovulation is expected

•   Follow the instructions very carefully while doing the test

•   Keep a track of your menstrual cycle to know the pattern (at least 6 months before you wish to conceive)
  
  

 What are the probable causes that hamper ovulation?

•    Adrenal disorders
•    Weight changes
•    PCOS
•    Ovarian cysts
•    Premature ovarian failure
•    Hyperinsulinemia
•    Hypothalamic causes
•    Distorted eating habits
•    Unusual physical workouts
•    Stress and anxiety
•    Other medications
•    Thyroid
  
  

How much do ovulation kits cost?

 Ovulation kits do not cost much. The urine-based OPKs are among the cheaper available options. The choice of which product to buy depends on you. The brand value and reviews of customers must be taken into consideration. Go for a device that you can easily use at home.

Conclusion

Ovulation tools are helpful for people who want to keep a check on their fertility cycle, which in turn helps in planning their pregnancy. Now that you have learnt about various types of fertility predictors you can choose the one that best suits your convenience. Given a very short window for women to conceive every month, ovulation kits help you identify your fertile cycle better thus increasing the chances of getting pregnant.