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If you are trying to conceive, you may be wondering the best time of the month to “try”. There are several websites where you can input the date of your last period and how long your cycle is to determine when you are most fertile. These sites will give you a general idea of the 4 most fertile days each month. If you are just starting out trying to conceive (or TTC on forums) checking a calender for your fertile days may be enough. However, if you are unsuccessful after six to twelve months, you may need a better predictor.

Several companies offer ovulation tests to determine when you are fertile. These tests are simply pee sticks, much like pregnancy tests. You will be given a result based on the levels of hormones in your body. You then have sex based on the results. Depending upon brand, they can be expensive and sometimes difficult to read. There are regular test sticks as well as digital tests. Each offers its own pros and cons. One con is that you will use many sticks if you have irregular cycles. You will begin using the test 11 days after your period started and use them until you ovulate.

Other ways to predict ovulation include taking your temperature using a basil thermometer each morning. You temperature will increase 0.4 to 1 degree when you ovulate. Using this method, you will need to have intercourse within the next 24 hours, as an egg only survives for 24 hours after being released.

You can also monitor your cervical mucus changes to predict ovulation. You are most fertile when the mucus is slippery, clear and stretchy. While not a pleasant way to predict fertility, it is fairly reliable. You may also have mild pains and cramping on the day you ovulate. Some women feel some mild abdominal pain, while others never do.

For more information, see our Ovulation Calculator and TTC site!