Signs of Ovulation: Understand Your Ovulating Cycle

 Ovulation is an important part of the menstrual cycle and can be a good indicator of fertility. Knowing the signs of ovulation can help you better understand your body and plan for conception. Common signs of ovulation include changes in cervical mucus, increased libido, light spotting, abdominal cramps, breast tenderness, and increased basal body temperature. 

The ovulation process is regulated by the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis. When basal body temperature is high, progesterone levels are low, in turn stimulating follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Increased FSH levels stimulate the ovaries to develop multiple follicles that continue to mature and produce estrogen. There are two types of estrogen: estradiol, a hormone produced by most cells in the body as well as some endocrine glands; and estriol, a weak estrogen produced by only one or a.The menstrual cycle is regulated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland; ovulation, menstruation, and fertility are regulated by the gonads. Ovulation is stimulated through surges of GnRH from the hypothalamus. These surges release FSH and LH from the pituitary gland that travel to different parts of the body where they stimulate follicles to grow in each ovary (if one ovary has not already released an egg) or produce testosterone in testes. The follicles respond with higher levels of estrogen, which causes changes in cervical mucus and boosts libido, as well as progester.

 By recognizing these signs, you can better predict when you are most likely to ovulate each month.

1. Cervical mucus

The mucus may also appear as a stringy and wet-looking material. It will be most noticeable in the days leading up to ovulation.  

2. Light spotting

Light spotting is a common symptom of ovulation and can be used as an indicator of when ovulation may be occurring.

3. Increased libido

During ovulation, the body releases hormones that can increase libido and sexual desire. Additionally, during ovulation, the uterus produces more fertile cervical mucus which increases the chances of conception

4. Abdominal cramps

Abdominal cramps are a common symptom of ovulation. During ovulation, the ovary releases an egg and the uterus contracts in order to help the egg travel down the fallopian tube. This process can cause abdominal cramps that can range from mild to severe. The pain typically lasts for a few minutes or hours and is usually felt on one side of the abdomen.

5. Breast tenderness

Breast tenderness is a common symptom of ovulation. During ovulation, the body releases hormones that can cause the breasts to become swollen and tender. This is due to an increase in estrogen and progesterone levels during this time. Breast tenderness usually occurs in the days leading up to ovulation and may last for a few days after it has occurred. It is important to note that not all women experience breast tenderness when they ovulate, but it can be a sign that you are about to release an egg from your ovaries.

6. Basal body température 

To track your basal body temperature, use a thermometer to take your temperature every morning upon waking. The temperature should be taken with your mouth closed and the thermometer placed under the tongue for about two minutes before you spit it out. If your temperature is recorded as being consistently higher (at least 0.4 degrees Celsius or 1 degree Fahrenheit) than on days that precede ovulation, then you are probably ovulating.

7. Ovulation predictor kit

Some women use an ovulation predictor kit in order to know when they are ovulating because they can detect a change in hormones recorded by the test at certain times of the month