How to Determine Fertile Days

Being able to predict when your fertile can be advantageous in many ways. If you don't want to become pregnant, you can determine which days you'll be ovulating in order to avoid sexual intercourse. On the other hand, if you'd like to become pregnant, knowing which days are optimal for pregnancy can come in handy. According to American Fertility, the time you're fertile begins four to five days prior to ovulation (when an egg drops from an ovarian follicle). If you have a normal menstrual cycle, which is every 28 days, ovulation would occur 14 days from the onset of your period.

Things You'll Need

  • Basal body thermometer
  • Calendar
  • Ovulation kit

Instructions

    • 1
      Mark the days of your period on a calendar.

      Mark your menstrual cycles on your calendar. Be sure to note when your period begins for each cycle.

    • 2
      Keep a log of your periods.

      Keep a journal of your menstrual cycle for a few months. This will allow you to calculate an average time when your cycle will start.

    • 3
      Changes in your temperature can help predict ovulation.

      Determine if your cycles are average. If your periods are irregular, use a thermometer to begin tracking changes in your temperature.

    • 4
      Track the changes in your body temperature.

      Pick a time in the morning to monitor your temperature. According to Parents magazine, a woman's body temperature will increase slightly after 24 to 48 hours after ovulation. After taking your temperature for a few months, you will be able to get an idea of when you're ovulating.

    • 5

      Check for changes in your cervical mucus. When you get closer to ovulation, your body will start secreting mass quantities of cervical mucus. The mucus is necessary to help sperm travel toward the egg.

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