How many hours after ovulation can you get pregnant. How many days after the act does conception occur: the process of fertilization, the time required for conception One day after ovulation

• calendar method. The essence of the technique is that the release of the egg occurs 14 days before the start of the next menstruation. This method of calculation is suitable for those women who have a regular cycle.
• physiological method. The female body is designed so that ovulation should end in pregnancy. Therefore, during the exit, estrogens are released, which leads to an increase in libido, a change in the consistency of secretions. Some women feel a kind of tingling pain in the ovary.
• temperature method. The day the egg is released differs from other days in that it rises by 0.4 degrees. To calculate such a change, you need to measure the temperature daily for a month with an electronic thermometer without getting out of bed.
• . Pharmacies sell special tests to determine ovulation. They are outwardly identical to pregnancy tests, but respond to the growth of luteinizing hormone (LH), and not chorionic gonadotropin (). To accurately determine ovulation, you need to perform these tests daily in the middle of the cycle - in exactly the same way as pregnancy tests.
• Ultrasound control. With the help of highly sensitive ultrasound diagnostic devices, it is possible to check the growth and maturation of follicles, the release of an egg. But such a study must be carried out on strictly defined days in order to confirm ovulation for sure.

How long does conception take?

Fertilization occurs on the day of ovulation. The egg is viable for about 10-14 hours from the moment it leaves the follicle. Male reproductive cells, spermatozoa, can remain viable inside the female body for much longer - up to 72 hours.

Therefore, sexual intercourse on the eve of rupture of the follicle is considered the most favorable for conception.

Note! Spermatozoa are very mobile and can reach the fallopian tube within 1.5-2 hours from the moment of ejaculation. But the complete renewal of spermatozoa, taking into account their maturation, occurs in 4-5 days, and therefore with each subsequent sexual intercourse, for one day, the number of active spermatozoa will decrease.

What after?

After the fertilization of the egg, the pre-implantation period of pregnancy begins. This period lasts 4-5 days. During this time, the egg moves through the fallopian tube to. The following factors contribute to the movement:

• Contraction of the smooth muscles of the fallopian tube.
• Movement of the cilia of the tubal epithelium.
• Relaxation of the special sphincter that separates the fallopian tube from the uterus.

Active movement is promoted by the hormones of the female body - estrogen and progesterone. During this period, division processes begin to occur inside the cell, thus it prepares for penetration into the wall of the uterus.

This is already an embryo of 16-32 cells. After entering the uterus, it is in a free state for 2 days, and then implantation is carried out.

offensive period

The optimal period for fertilization is considered to be a period of 4 days - 2 days before ovulation and 2 after. If spermatozoa enter the body of a woman before ovulation, then fertilization can occur immediately after the release of the egg.

Interesting fact! There are cases when the egg remained viable for up to 72 hours. But in most cases, it is capable of fertilization during the first day after release.

From what day is fertilization unlikely?

Already 96 hours after the release of the egg from the follicle, the probability of conception is reduced to almost zero. If a woman is regular, you can try to calculate the most favorable period for fertilization.

To do this, you need to analyze your cycle for the last year and choose the longest and shortest. 11 days must be subtracted from the longest - this is the day when the probability of conception will be reduced to zero.

You need to subtract 18 from the shortest - so we get the day of the cycle, on which the probability of getting pregnant begins to increase. With a regular cycle of 28 days, the probability of fertilization is extremely low from the 17th day.

When to do the test?

Pregnancy tests respond to the level of hCG in a woman's urine. This hormone is synthesized during pregnancy. It is produced by the chorion, a cell structure in the embryo. The appearance and growth of hCG in the urine indicate a successful pregnancy.

The hormone begins to be detected in the blood of a woman from the first days after implantation. That is, from the moment of fertilization to the appearance of the “pregnancy hormone”, at least 7 days must pass.

After the introduction of the embryo, the level of hCG begins to rise rapidly and until the 11th week of pregnancy, its amount in the mother's body doubles every 48 hours.

You can start doing pregnancy tests as early as 10-12 days after fertilization. In earlier periods, the level of the hormone will be very low and may not be determined by the usual rapid test.

Advice! If the pregnancy test showed a weak second strip, you need to repeat it after 48 hours. During this time, the amount of the hormone should double and the results will be more obvious. For repeated testing, it is better to use tests of the same brand - they have the same sensitivity and it will be easier to track the dynamics using them.

pregnancy symptoms

The first symptoms of pregnancy do not begin to appear immediately after conception, but after the implantation of the embryo into the uterine wall.

• Implantation bleeding. Occurs 6-9 days after fertilization. It appears as smearing brown or bloody discharge. It is often confused with the onset of menstruation, although it occurs 7-9 days before it begins.
• Pulling pain in the lower abdomen or a feeling of heaviness. It occurs due to the contraction of the smooth muscles of the uterus when the embryo implants. It also looks like the onset of menstruation, but manifests itself at least a week before it starts.
• Swelling of the mammary glands. Another sign that is easy to confuse with approaching menstruation. It differs not in simple engorgement, but in a strong increase in the sensitivity of the nipples. Perhaps their darkening and the manifestation of a venous pattern on the mammary glands.
• Feeling tired. The body of a woman enters the mode of hormonal adjustment and therefore consumes more energy than usual. This leads to increased fatigue and drowsiness.
• Changing the emotional background. Suddenly, emotionality or aggressiveness may increase. This symptom also often occurs with PMS, but is less pronounced.
• Increase in basal body temperature. One of the most revealing signs is an increase in basal temperature above the average by 0.3 degrees, which indicates successful implantation. By increasing the blood supply to the pelvic organs, an increase in basal temperature occurs.

Note! The manifestation of the first signs of pregnancy is a purely individual phenomenon. Some women from the first days begin to experience nausea and a change in taste preferences, and someone does not experience any symptoms of pregnancy during the first few weeks after conception.

Planning the gender of the child

you can calculate the sex of the unborn child. The seminal fluid of men contains two types of spermatozoa: one carries the X chromosome, which is “responsible”, and the other carries the Y chromosome, which causes the appearance of a boy.

Spermatozoa with the X chromosome move more slowly. They are slightly larger in size and therefore more viable. Sperm carriers of the Y chromosome have a longer tail and smaller sizes, and therefore are able to move towards the egg faster.

But they have a smaller supply of nutrients, and therefore have a shorter duration of activity than carriers of the X chromosome.

• If parents are planning a boy, the chance of conceiving him is higher on the day of ovulation. Spermatozoa with a Y chromosome will reach the egg faster and, accordingly, the conception of a boy is more likely.
• If parents are planning a girl, then the likelihood of her conception will be higher during sexual intercourse 1-2 days before ovulation. During this time, sperm with the X chromosome will reach the fallopian tube and be able to fertilize the egg.

This method of planning is most explicable from the point of view of human physiology. But it can be effective only under the condition of absolute reproductive health of both parents.

If, for example, a woman's vaginal pH is disturbed, this can significantly slow down the movement of spermatozoa. And we must remember that this method does not give an absolute guarantee that a child of the desired sex will be conceived.

Today, many prefer. And for this you need to know when the favorable moment for conception comes, which directly depends on ovulation. How many days after menstruation does ovulation occur?

What is ovulation. What happens during ovulation

Ovulation is the process of exit from the follicle into the fallopian tube of a mature and fertile egg. In a healthy woman of childbearing age, ovulation occurs every 22-35 days. The exact frequency of the cycle is determined individually and depends on the hormone that the hypothalamus produces.

Under the influence of this hormone, the ovarian follicle greatly increases, reaching a diameter of 2 cm. At the same time, an egg begins to actively develop in it. As the follicle matures, it releases estrogens (hormones) that trigger meiosis (the process of egg maturation). As soon as maturation is completed, a hole is formed in the follicle through which the egg is released. It enters the fallopian tube. If conception occurred at this time, then in a few days the fertilized egg will be in the uterus. If fertilization does not occur, then the egg dies a day after leaving the follicle.

Ovulation even in healthy women occurs far not every month. There are periods when the ovaries rest. These stages are called anovulatory cycles. At this time, the maturation of the follicle does not occur. An anovulatory cycle of 2-3 months is considered normal.

How to calculate ovulation? What day after menstruation do you ovulate? In healthy women with a regular menstrual cycle ovulation occurs in the middle of the cycle. However, sometimes the egg may mature earlier or later. For example, if the menstrual cycle usually lasts 28 days, then ovulation should occur on the 14th day. But with late maturation of the follicle, it will occur on the 18–20th day, and with early maturation, on the 7th–10th day.

Itself ovulation lasts only a few minutes. As soon as the egg left the ovary and ended up in the fallopian tube, the process was completed. But the egg itself lives for another day (sometimes less), waiting for the appearance of spermatozoa.

There are several ways to find out the exact moment of ovulation. All of them are quite simple and affordable.

• calendar method. It consists in monitoring the dates of the beginning and end of menstruation, with the expectation that ovulation will occur in the middle of the cycle. With a 28-day cycle on day 14-15, with a 30-day cycle - on day 15. However, this method gives the correct result only in 30% of cases, since modern women rarely have cycles without failures.
• tactile method also not reliable and very subjective. Its essence boils down to the fact that on the eve and during ovulation, the discharge from the cervix changes, becomes not as viscous as usual. If a woman monitors this factor, she will be able to determine the moment of ovulation.
• Basal temperature. Considered one of the most reliable. The method is daily (rectal). This must be done in the morning without getting out of bed. On normal days of the cycle, the temperature will be the same, and at the time of ovulation and the next day it will change dramatically. Observations for 1-2 months will be required to draw up an accurate schedule. The reliability of the method is 90%.
• Test indicator. The new and most reliable way to determine ovulation. It works in much the same way as a pregnancy test, determining the level of hormones involved in the process of ovulation.

Observing the state of your body can also help in determining when the egg matures. The female body reacts to any changes in the hormonal background. Exists some signs of ovulation, which you can define yourself:

• Increased vaginal discharge. Their consistency also changes, they become less viscous, but more viscous.
• Bloating and pain. At the time of ovulation, bloating or increased gas production is often observed. Also, often after ovulation, the stomach pulls, as before menstruation.
• Discharge with blood. If instead of the usual discharge, blood or ichor appears, then this can also indicate ovulation.
• Increased breast sensitivity or pain appears. This happens when the hormonal background changes, the cause of which may be the release of the egg.
• Increasing sex drive. This is a natural mechanism that promotes procreation.
• Tastes change, sensitivity to smells appears. The reason for these changes are fluctuations in the hormonal background. It goes away after ovulation.

These signs may appear one at a time or several at once. However, you should not rely on them completely. The hormonal background of a woman can change for various reasons. And the deterioration of well-being is easily caused by stress and lack of proper rest. In addition, ovulation may not be accompanied by any noticeable changes at all.

Every healthy woman does not ovulate once or twice a year. As noted, this the process is called anovulatory and is necessary for the rest of the ovaries.

But there are times when the cause of the lack of ovulation is a disease. Let's list that what can cause such violations:

• malfunctions of the hypothalamus or pituitary gland;
• inflammation of the genitourinary system;
• dysfunction of the adrenal cortex or thyroid gland;
• constant stress.

Only a doctor can determine the cause of the lack of ovulation, as well as prescribe treatment.

The number of ovulations in one month. Are there "safe" days for sex?

It also happens that in one cycle a woman experiences two ovulations. In this case, the eggs can be released both from one ovary with a break of several days, and simultaneously from two ovaries. Such cases are often observed after special stimulation of ovulation, but also occur in the normal cycle. Often a woman does not even know about a similar feature of her body.

At the same time, if you usually have one ovulation per cycle, this does not mean that the possibility of double egg maturation is completely excluded. Usually, in a woman, one of the ovaries is the main one and only he ovulates for several years. But this does not mean that the second ovary is inoperable. At some point, he may, just like the first, begin the production of eggs.

"Safe" days are days when a woman cannot conceive. They exist and can be identified. To do this, you need to know the moment of ovulation with an accuracy of the day. Then calculate 7 days before the release of the egg from the follicle and three days after. This period will be "dangerous", that is, favorable for conception. All other days are "safe". The main thing is to accurately determine the day the egg is released. But the probability of a failure in the cycle or a second ovulation does not make it possible to guarantee 100% "safety".

Lifespan of spermatozoa. How long does it take for fertilization to occur after ovulation?

After the egg is in the fallopian tube, it retains its viability from 12 to 72 hours. That is, at this moment a woman can become pregnant, but sexual intercourse does not have to occur during this period.

This is due to the fact that spermatozoa, once in the body of a woman, retain their activity for another 2-3 days, in some cases this can be up to 7 days. Therefore, a period of 6 days before ovulation and one day after is the most suitable for conception.

Video about the timing of ovulation

In the video below, you can learn about what is ovulation And at what age does it start? The method for determining ovulation by measuring basal temperature is considered in more detail and clearly.

It is advisable to use a pregnancy test only from the first day of delay. Without waiting for the expected date, many closely monitor changes in the body, including in the vaginal secretion, in order to recognize the onset of pregnancy as early as possible. In this article, we will thoroughly understand the question of whether there are clear differences in the discharge after ovulation, if conception has occurred or not.

What should be the discharge immediately after conception: before the attachment of the fetal egg?

The discharge at conception does not differ from the usual cervical mucus during the fertile period. At this time, estrogen dominates, which provokes more liquid and abundant mucus from the vagina, similar to snot or egg white, which increases the likelihood of becoming pregnant (see photo). and can be observed.

4th day. The embryo enters the tubes, and there are already as many as 16 cells in it. There is no significant effect on the vaginal secret, the situation continues on the third day.

From the 5th to the 7th day. During this period, the fertilized egg reaches the uterus, where it will be decided whether pregnancy will occur or not. A positive result is the fixation of the embryo in the mucous layer of the uterus (may happen later).

What does the color of discharge after conception and before menstruation indicate?

You can navigate by the shade of discharge to mark the absence of pregnancy or the beginning of the first month of the gestation period.

White discharge after conception and in the second half of the cycle

Mucus of this shade should have a uniform consistency and not cause discomfort in the form of itching and burning. This substance cannot tell about a pregnancy that has occurred, since it does not have significant differences.

yellow

Such traces on the panty liner are allowed during the luteal phase in the absence of pregnancy, but they should not be saturated (yellowish or). are not a sign of conception, but the probability of fertilization that has taken place still exists.

transparent secret

After ovulation, the mucus from the vagina should become thicker, acquiring a whitish tint. But a small amount of clear liquid is acceptable at any time of the cycle.

Red, brown, pink

Mucus of this color is normal if it is caused by the fertile period and. In all other situations, you need to check with a doctor. In the first case, we are talking about follicle rupture and damage to blood vessels, and in the second, fertilization. Distinguishes their time of occurrence and intensity. The first option - they have a meager character (brown drop on the gasket) and are accompanied by aching pains in the lower abdomen. Learn about the characteristics of the second option below.

What is implantation bleeding?

Bloody discharge after conception, indicating the attachment of the fetal egg, will not appear before the fifth or sixth day from the moment of fertilization.

It is this minimum that the embryo needs to penetrate the uterine wall. Thus, one should expect the appearance of such secretions a week after ovulation or a week before menstruation, which will indicate the onset of pregnancy.

You may notice a small amount of mucus with clots or drops of blood on the panty liner or underwear (see photo). The nature of secretion may vary from the ratio of vaginal fluid and blood streaks. The intensity exceeds the discharge during ovulation. The following shades are allowed:

• Red;
• pale pink;
• brownish;
• light yellow.

It is important to assess the duration and volume of bleeding after ovulation.

1. Conception happened. The duration of implantation bleeding ranges from a few hours to two or three days. Moreover, there should not be much vaginal fluid.
2. Conception did not occur. Allocations begin with a daub and turn into a full menstruation.
3. Sign of pathology. The gasket gets wet in an hour or less, then the trip to the hospital cannot be postponed, because there is a suspicion of bleeding.

According to reviews of pregnant women, most often implantation discharge after fertilization appears 6-12 days after ovulation. Moreover, gynecologists say that most patients did not encounter this phenomenon at all or did not pay attention to it.

Is pregnancy possible if there is no secretion?

The absence of discharge after ovulation is a kind of norm for the monthly cycle. The reason lies in the individual characteristics of the body, as well as the state of the hormonal background. After the fertile phase, the level of progesterone increases, and this hormone creates unfavorable conditions for the movement of sperm when the mucous plug of the cervical canal is the least permeable.

But in most cases, there is still a sticky or sticky secretion, which becomes watery before menstruation. To determine pregnancy, it is better to pay close attention to the changes in the body that indicate it:

• fatigue;
• soreness of the mammary glands;
• dizziness;
• change in attitude to food;
• increased drowsiness;
• mood swings;
• pain in the abdomen (may pull the lower back).

How to find out by secretions if fertilization failed?

The main difficulty is that the nature of the discharge after ovulation, if conception has not occurred, is very similar to the secret in women in early pregnancy, that is, before the blastocyst is fixed on the uterine wall. From the time of the ovulatory period until menstruation, the secretion in the form of chicken protein or abundant mucus should change to a sticky or sticky liquid with a thicker consistency. Shortly before the end of the menstrual cycle, cervical mucus practically disappears, appearing a few days before menstruation. The most striking sign can be considered the above-described implantation bleeding, but due to the fact that it is a rather rare occurrence, it is not worth drawing conclusions relying on its absence.

It will be right to appreciate your feelings and wait about a week. If there is no blood in the vaginal secretion, there are no aching pains and cramps in the lower abdomen, conception is unlikely, but not excluded. For greater certainty, you can do a test based on the immunochromatographic method for determining the level of chorionic gonadotropin in the urine (ultrasensitive 7 days after ovulation).

What does it say about pathology?

All secretions that cause redness of the genital organs, irritation, burning, do not exclude pregnancy, but also the risk of developing inflammation and other pathological disorders.

The following cervical mucus indicates problems in the reproductive system:

• curdled lumps, itching, burning (thrush);
• dark brown, (polycystic ovaries, severe inflammation);
• rich yellow, green, (infection).

This is just a small list of possible diseases. For a more accurate diagnosis, it is necessary to undergo diagnostics and take tests.

It happens that brown or red discharge after ovulation torments women with cervical erosion when the affected area is systematically damaged.

or before the expected menstrual bleeding cannot 100% guarantee the success of conception.

The main task of a woman on Earth is considered to be procreation. Of course, both a woman and a man are involved in the process of conception, but whether the representative of the weaker sex endures pregnancy, whether she gives birth to a healthy child depends only on herself. Ovulation is necessary for fertilization to occur. Ovulation and conception are two interrelated states, because in the absence of ovulation, fertilization is impossible. Signs of ovulation are almost always noticed by a woman (consciously or not), so their knowledge is necessary not only to plan a long-awaited pregnancy, but also to prevent an unwanted one.

The menstrual cycle and its phases

To define the term "ovulation" you should understand the concept of "menstrual cycle".

During the menstrual cycle, functional and structural transformations consistently occur in the female body, which affect not only the reproductive system, but also the rest (nervous, endocrine, and others).

The formation of the menstrual cycle, which is physiological for the female body, begins during puberty. The first menstruation or menarche occurs at the age of 12 - 14 years of the girl and draws a line under the first period of puberty. The menstrual cycle is finally established in a year and a half and is characterized by the regularity of menstrual bleeding and a relatively stable duration. During the indicated time (1 - 1.5 years), the cycles of a teenage girl are anovulatory, that is, there is no ovulation, and the cycles themselves consist of two phases: follicular and luteal. Anovulation during the formation of the cycle is considered an absolutely normal phenomenon and is associated with insufficient production of hormones necessary for the completion of ovulation. By about the age of 16, the menstrual cycle acquires its individual characteristics, which persist throughout life and regular ovulation appears.

Physiology of the menstrual cycle

The average duration of the menstrual cycle ranges from 21 to 35 days. The duration of menstrual bleeding is 3-7 days. Most women have a total cycle length of 28 days (75% of the population).

It is customary to divide the menstrual cycle into two phases, the boundary between which is ovulation (in some sources, a separate ovulatory phase is distinguished). All periodically occurring and repeating approximately every month changes in a woman's body, in particular in the reproductive system, are aimed at ensuring full ovulation. If this process does not occur, the cycle is called anovulatory, and the woman, accordingly, is infertile.

Phases of the "female" cycle:

First phase

In the first phase (another name is follicular) in the pituitary gland, the production of follicle-stimulating hormone begins, under the influence of which the process of proliferation (maturation) of follicles or folliculogenesis starts in the ovaries. At the same time, for one month in the ovary (sometimes in the right, then in the left), about 10-15 follicles begin active growth, which become proliferating or maturing. The maturing follicles, in turn, synthesize estrogens, which are necessary for the final completion of the process of maturation of the dominant follicle, that is, they are temporary glands. Under the influence of estrogens, the main (dominant) follicle forms a cavity around itself, which is filled with follicular fluid and where the egg “ripens”. As the dominant follicle grows and a cavity forms around it (now called the Graaffian vesicle), follicle-stimulating hormone and estrogens accumulate in the follicular fluid. As soon as the process of maturation of the egg is completed, the dominant follicle sends a signal to the pituitary gland, and it stops producing FSH, as a result of which the Graafian vesicle bursts and a mature full-fledged egg is released into the “light”.

Second phase

So what is ovulation? The second phase (conditionally) is called ovulatory, that is, the period when the Graafian vesicle ruptures and the egg appears in free space (in this case, in the abdominal cavity, more often on the surface of the ovary). Ovulation is the process of the immediate release of an egg from the ovary. The rupture of the main follicle proceeds under the "banner" of luteinizing hormone, which begins to be secreted by the pituitary gland after a signal is given to it by the follicle itself.

Third phase

This phase is called the luteal phase, as it proceeds with the participation of luteinizing hormone. As soon as the follicle burst and “released” the egg, the corpus luteum begins to form from the granulosa cells of the Graafian vesicle. In the process of division of granulosa cells and the formation of the corpus luteum, progesterone begins to be synthesized along with the LH-releasing pituitary gland. The corpus luteum and progesterone production are designed to preserve the egg in case of fertilization, ensure its implantation in the uterine wall and maintain pregnancy until the placenta is formed. The formation of the placenta is completed by about 16 weeks of gestation and one of its functions is the synthesis of progesterone. So, if fertilization has taken place, then the corpus luteum is called the corpus luteum of pregnancy, and if the egg does not meet with the sperm, then the corpus luteum undergoes reverse changes (involution) by the end of the cycle and disappears. In this case, it is called the corpus luteum of menstruation.

All the described changes relate only to the ovaries and are therefore called the ovarian cycle.

uterine cycle

Speaking about the physiology of the menstrual cycle and the ovulation cycle, it should be noted the structural changes that occur in the uterus under the influence of certain hormones:

Desquamation phase

The first day of the menstrual cycle is considered to be the first day of menstruation. Menstruation is the rejection of the overgrown functional layer of the uterine mucosa, which was ready to accept (implant) a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not happen, then desquamation of the uterine mucosa occurs along with blood - menstrual bleeding.

Regeneration phase

It follows the desquamation phase and is accompanied by the restoration of the functional layer with the help of a reserve epithelium. This phase begins even during bleeding (the epithelium is simultaneously rejected and restored) and ends on the 6th day of the cycle.

Proliferation phase

It is characterized by the growth of the stroma and glands and coincides in time with the follicular phase. With a 28-day cycle, it lasts up to 14 days and ends by the time the follicle matures and is ready to burst.

Secretion phase

The secretory phase corresponds to the corpus luteum phase. At this stage, there is a thickening and loosening of the functional layer of the uterine mucosa, which is necessary for the successful introduction of a fertilized egg into its thickness (implantation).

Signs of ovulation

Knowing the signs of ovulation will help determine the day of ovulation, for which you need to treat your body with great attention. Of course, ovulation can not always be suspected, because its manifestations are very subjective and sometimes go unnoticed by a woman. But the changes in the hormonal background that occur every month allow you to “calculate” and remember the sensations during ovulation and compare them with the new ones.

Subjective signs

The subjective signs of ovulation include those that the woman herself feels and that only she can tell about. Another name for subjective signs is sensations:

Stomach ache

One of the first signs of ovulation is pain in the lower abdomen. On the eve of the rupture of the follicle, a woman may feel, but not necessarily, a slight tingling in the lower abdomen, more often on the right or left. This indicates the most enlarged and tense dominant follicle, which is about to burst. After its rupture, a small wound, a few millimeters in size, remains on the ovarian membrane, which also worries the woman. This is manifested by minor aching or pulling pains or discomfort in the lower abdomen. Such sensations disappear after a couple of days, but if the pain has not gone away or is so acute that it disrupts the usual way of life, you should consult a doctor (ovarian apoplexy is possible).

Mammary gland

Perhaps the appearance of soreness or hypersensitivity in the mammary glands, which is associated with hormonal changes. The production of FSH stops and the synthesis of LH begins, which is reflected in the chest. She is swollen and rough and very sensitive to touch.

Libido

Another characteristic subjective sign of approaching and onset ovulation is an increase in libido (sexual desire), which is also due to hormonal changes. It is so predetermined by nature that it ensures the continuation of the family - once the egg is ready for fertilization, then it is necessary to increase sexual desire to increase the likelihood of sexual contact and subsequent pregnancy.

Exacerbation of sensations

On the eve and during the period of ovulation, a woman notes an exacerbation of all sensations (increased sensitivity to smells, changes in color perception and taste), which is also explained by hormonal changes. Emotional lability and a sudden change of mood (from irritability to fun, from tears to laughter) are not ruled out.

Objective signs

Objective signs (symptoms of ovulation) are those that are seen by the examining person, for example, a doctor:

Cervix

During a gynecological examination in the ovulatory phase, the doctor may note that the cervix softened somewhat, the cervical canal opened slightly, and the cervix itself rose up.

Edema

Swelling of the extremities, more often of the legs, indicates a change in FSH production to LH production and is visible not only to the woman herself, but also to her relatives and the doctor.

Allocations

During ovulation, the nature of the vaginal discharge also changes. If in the first phase of the cycle a woman does not notice spots on her underwear, which is associated with a thick plug that clogs the cervical canal and prevents infectious agents from entering the uterine cavity, then the discharge changes in the ovulatory stage. The mucus in the cervical canal liquefies and becomes viscous and viscous, which is necessary to facilitate the penetration of spermatozoa into the uterine cavity. In appearance, cervical mucus resembles egg white, stretches up to 7-10 cm and leaves noticeable stains on linen.

Admixture of blood in secretions

Another of the characteristic objective, but optional signs of ovulation. Blood in the secretions appears in very small quantities, so a woman may not notice this symptom. One or two drops of blood enter the fallopian tube, then into the uterus and into the cervical canal after the rupture of the dominant follicle. Rupture of the follicle is always accompanied by damage to the ovarian membrane and the release of a small amount of blood into the abdominal cavity.

Basal temperature

This symptom can only be detected by a woman who regularly keeps a schedule of basal temperature. On the eve of ovulation, there is a slight (0.1 - 0.2 degrees) drop in temperature, and during the rupture of the follicle and after, the temperature rises and remains above 37 degrees.

Ultrasound data

An increase in the size of the dominant follicle and its subsequent rupture are reliably determined using ultrasound.

After ovulation

Some women, especially those who use the calendar method of contraception, are interested in symptoms after ovulation has taken place. Thus, women calculate "safe" days in relation to unwanted pregnancy. These signs are very uncharacteristic and may coincide with early symptoms of pregnancy:

Vaginal discharge

As soon as the egg is released from the main follicle and died (its life expectancy is 24, maximum 48 hours), the discharge from the genital tract also changes. Vaginal leucorrhoea loses its transparency, becomes milky, possibly interspersed with small lumps, sticky and does not stretch well (see).

pain

Within one to two days after the completion of ovulation, discomfort and minor pain in the lower abdomen disappear.

Libido

Sexual desire also gradually fades away, since now it makes no sense for sperm to meet with the egg, it has already died.

Basal temperature

If at the moment of rupture of the Graafian vesicle, the basal temperature is significantly higher than 37 degrees, then after ovulation it decreases by several tenths of a degree, although it remains above 37 degrees. This sign is unreliable, since even with the conception that has occurred, the basal temperature will be above the 37-degree mark. The only difference is that by the end of the second phase (before the start of menstruation), the temperature will drop to 37 degrees and below.

Acne

On the eve and at the time of ovulation, hormonal changes occur in the body, which affects the condition of the skin of the face - acne appears. As soon as ovulation is over, the rash gradually disappears.

Ultrasound data

An ultrasound scan allows you to reveal a dominant follicle that has collapsed due to a rupture, a small amount of fluid in the retrouterine space, and a later-forming corpus luteum. Ultrasound data are most indicative in the case of dynamic research (maturing of follicles, determination of the dominant follicle and its subsequent rupture).

Signs of conception

Before talking about the signs of pregnancy after ovulation, it is worth understanding the terms “fertilization” and “conception”. Fertilization, that is, the meeting of the egg with the sperm, occurs in the fallopian tube, from where the fertilized egg is sent to the uterus. In the uterine cavity, the fertilized egg chooses the most convenient place and attaches to the uterine wall, that is, it is implanted. After implantation has occurred, a close relationship is established between the mother's organism and the zygote (future embryo), which is supported by a change in the hormonal level. The process of securely fixing the zygote in the uterine cavity is called conception. That is, if fertilization has taken place, but implantation has not yet occurred, this is not called pregnancy, and some sources indicate such a term as “biological pregnancy”. Until the zygote is securely entrenched in the thickness of the endometrium, it can be expelled from the uterus at the same time as menstrual flow, which is called a very early miscarriage or termination of a biological pregnancy.

It is very difficult to determine the signs of conception, especially for an inexperienced woman, and appear approximately 10 to 14 days after ovulation:

Basal temperature

With a possible pregnancy, the basal temperature remains at a high level, about 37.5 degrees and does not decrease before the expected menstruation.

Implant retraction

If in the second phase of the cycle after ovulation, the basal temperature remains elevated (more than 37) almost until the onset of menstruation, then at the time of the introduction of the zygote into the uterine mucosa, it slightly decreases, which is called implantation retraction. Such a drop is characterized by a mark below 37 degrees, and the next day a sharp jump in temperature (more than 37 and higher than it was after ovulation).

implantation bleeding

When a fertilized egg tries to settle in the thickness of the uterine mucosa, it somewhat destroys it and damages nearby small vessels. Therefore, the implantation process, but not necessarily, is accompanied by small bleeding, which can be seen in the form of pinkish spots on the linen, or one or two drops of blood.

Change in well-being

From the moment of implantation, there is a shift in the hormonal background, which is manifested by lethargy, apathy, possibly irritability and tearfulness, increased appetite, changes in taste and olfactory sensations. Also, in the early stages of pregnancy, a slightly elevated body temperature can be noted, which is associated with the influence of hormones (progesterone) on the thermoregulation center. This phenomenon is absolutely normal for pregnancy and is aimed at suppressing the immunity of the mother's body and preventing miscarriage. Many women take a rise in temperature and a deterioration in well-being as the first signs of SARS.

Discomfort in the lower abdomen

Several unpleasant sensations or even cramps in the lower abdomen for one, maximum two days are also associated with the implantation of the zygote and are absolutely physiological.

Mammary gland

There is increased sensitivity, swelling and soreness in the mammary glands after the completion of ovulation. A slight increase in these symptoms indicates the possibility of conception.

Delayed menstruation

If menstruation has not begun, it's time to take a pregnancy test and make sure you're right.

When does ovulation occur and how long does it last

All women are interested in when ovulation occurs, because this is important for calculating favorable days for conception or for preventing unwanted pregnancy. As already mentioned, the ovulatory period is the time that lasts from the moment of rupture of the main follicle to the entry of a full-fledged egg into the fallopian tube, where it has every chance of being fertilized.

It is impossible to determine the exact duration of the ovulatory period, due to the fact that even in a particular woman it can change in each cycle (lengthen or shorten). On average, the entire process takes 16-32 hours. It is the process, not the viability of the egg. But with the term of life of the released "free" egg, it is easier, and this time is 12 - 48 hours.

But if the life span of the egg is short enough, then spermatozoa, on the contrary, retain their activity for up to 7 days. That is, if sexual intercourse took place on the eve of ovulation (a day or two), then it is quite possible that a “fresh” egg is fertilized by spermatozoa that “waited” for it in the tube and did not lose their activity at all. It is on this fact that the calendar method of protection is based, that is, the calculation of dangerous days (3 days before ovulation and 3 days after).

When it comes

To determine the days of ovulation, but approximately, a simple calculation will help. Ovulation occurs at the end of the first phase of the cycle (follicular). To know on what day a certain woman ovulates, she needs to know the length of her cycle (we are talking about regular cycles).

The duration of the follicular phase is different for everyone and ranges from 10 to 18 days. But the duration of the second phase is always the same for all women and corresponds to 14 days. To determine ovulation, it is enough to subtract 14 days from the entire length of the menstrual cycle. As a result, it turns out that if the cycle lasts 28 days (minus 14), we get the 14th day of the cycle, which will mean the approximate day the egg is released from the follicle.

Or the cycle lasts 32 days, minus 14 - we get the approximate day 18 of the cycle - the day of ovulation. Why, speaking of such a simple calculation, is it called approximate? Because the menstrual cycle, and especially the ongoing ovulation, are very sensitive processes and depend on many factors. For example, ovulation may occur prematurely (early) or late (late).

The onset of early rupture of the follicle and the release of the egg can be triggered by the following factors:

• significant stress;
• weight lifting;
• significant sports loads;
• frequent intercourse;
• harmful production;
• banal cold;
• change in climate, lifestyle or diet;
• excessive smoking or drinking alcohol;
• sleep disturbance;
• failure in the hormonal background;
• medication.

They say about late ovulation if it happens (with a 28-day cycle) on the 18th - 20th day. The reasons for this process are the same as the factors that provoke the early rupture of the main follicle.

How to calculate ovulation

How to calculate ovulation, you need to know all women, especially those who have long and unsuccessfully tried to get pregnant. For this purpose, there are several developed methods for determining ovulation. All methods can be conditionally divided into "biological" and "official", that is, laboratory-instrumental.

calendar method

• cycle duration (it should not be too short, for example, 21 days and not very long, 35 days) - the optimal duration is 28 - 30 days;
• regularity - ideally, menstruation should come "to the day", but a deviation of +/- 2 days is allowed;
• the nature of menstrual flow - menstruation should be moderate, without clots and no more than 5-6 days, and the nature of the discharge should not change from cycle to cycle.

We subtract 14 from the length of the cycle (the length of the luteal phase) and conventionally take ovulation as the day (it can shift). We mark the calculated date on the calendar and add 2 days to 2 days after - these days are also considered favorable for fertilization.

Basal temperature

A more reliable method is the method of calculating ovulation according to the basal temperature chart. To calculate favorable days for conception, the following conditions must be met:

• measurement of basal, that is, in the rectum, temperature for at least three months;
• scheduling (this item is required) basal temperature;
• measurements should be taken in the morning, after a night's sleep, at the same time and without getting out of bed.

According to the drawn up schedule, we mark the first phase of the cycle, during which the temperature will stay below 37 degrees, then a preovulatory decrease during the day (by 0.1 - 0.2 degrees), a sharp jump in temperature (by 0.4 - 0.5 degrees) and the subsequent stay of the temperature in the mode above 37 degrees (second phase). A sharp jump will be considered the day the egg leaves the Graafian vesicle. We mark this day on the calendar and also do not forget about 2 days before 2 days after.

Ovulation Tests

Special tests for detecting the ovulatory process can be easily bought at any pharmacy (see). The action of the tests is based on the detection of a high level of luteinizing hormone in any biological fluid (blood, urine or saliva). A positive test indicates the release of a mature egg from the ovary and its readiness for conception.

Gynecological examination

When conducting a gynecological examination, the doctor can reliably identify signs of ovulation using functional diagnostic tests. The first is a method for determining the extensibility of cervical mucus. The forceps capture mucus from the external pharynx of the neck, and then its branches are bred. If the mucus is viscous and the dilution of the branches reaches 10 cm or more, this is considered one of the symptoms of ovulation. The second is the “pupil method”. The increasing mucus in the cervical canal stretches it, including the external pharynx, and it becomes ajar and round, like a pupil. If the external pharynx is narrowed and there is practically no mucus in it (“dry” neck), then this indicates the absence of ovulation (it has already passed).

Ultrasound - measurement of the follicle

This method allows you to establish with a 100% guarantee whether ovulation has occurred or not. In addition, with the help of ultrasound folliculometry, you can create your own menstrual cycle schedule and ovulation calendar and find out about its approach or completion. Typical ultrasound signs of impending ovulation:

• the growth of the main follicle plus the expansion of the cervical canal;
• determination of the main follicle ready to burst;
• control of the corpus luteum, which is formed at the site of the burst follicle, the identification of fluid in the retrouterine space, which indicates that ovulation has occurred.

Hormonal method

This method is based on determining the amount of estrogen and progesterone in the blood. The latter begins to stand out in the second phase of the cycle, when the formed corpus luteum begins to function. Approximately 7 days after the release of the egg from the ovary, progesterone in the blood rises, which confirms that ovulation has taken place. And the day before ovulation and on her day, the level of estrogen decreases significantly. The method is time-consuming, requires repeated blood donations and finances.

Lack of ovulation

If there is no ovulation, this phenomenon is called anovulation. It is clear that in the absence of ovulation, pregnancy becomes impossible. It should be noted that a healthy woman of childbearing age has up to two to three anovulatory cycles per year, which is considered normal. But if there is no ovulation all the time, then they talk about chronic anovulation and you should look for the causes of this condition, since the woman is diagnosed with "Infertility". Causes of chronic anovulation include:

• thyroid disease;
• overweight or obesity;
• polycystic ovary disease;
• diabetes;
• lack of weight;
• hyperprolactinemia;
• ovarian dysfunction;
• chronic inflammation of the ovaries;
• endometriosis of the ovaries and uterus (hormonal imbalance in general);
• constant stress;
• excessive physical activity (sports, household);
• harmful working conditions;
• pathology of the adrenal glands;
• tumors of the pituitary or hypothalamus and other pathologies.

The following factors can lead to temporary (transient) anovulation:

• pregnancy, which is natural, no menstrual cycle, no ovulation;
• breastfeeding (more often against the background of lactation, menstruation is absent, but it may be, but the cycle is usually anovulatory);
• premenopause (there is a fading of ovarian function, so the cycles will be anovulatory rather than ovulatory);
• taking contraceptive pills;
• stress;
• adherence to a specific diet for weight loss;
• an increase in body weight or a sharp decrease in it;
• change of habitual environment;
• climate change;
• change in working conditions.

If there is no ovulation - what to do? First of all, you should consult a doctor who will determine what caused this condition, and how serious it is (chronic or temporary anovulation). If anovulation is temporary, the doctor will recommend improving nutrition, stopping worrying and avoiding stress, changing jobs (for example, those associated with night shifts to day shifts), and taking vitamins.

In the case of chronic anovulation, the gynecologist will definitely prescribe an additional examination:

• sex hormones (estrogens, progesterone, prolactin, testosterone, FSH and LH) and adrenal and thyroid hormones;
• Ultrasound of the pelvic organs;
• colposcopy (according to indications);
• hysteroscopy (according to indications);
• diagnostic laparoscopy.

Depending on the identified cause, appropriate treatment is also prescribed, the final stage of which is the stimulation of ovulation. Basically, clostilbegit or clomiphene is used to stimulate ovulation, usually in combination with gonadotropic hormones (Menopur, Gonal-F). Ovulation stimulation is carried out for three menstrual cycles, and if there is no effect, the stimulation cycle is repeated after three cycles.

Question answer

Yes, such online calendars are quite suitable for calculating ovulation days, but their efficiency reaches only 30%, which is based on the calendar method for determining ovulation.

Question:
With an irregular cycle, will there necessarily be chronic anovulation?

Yes, an irregular cycle is more likely to be anovulatory, although this is debatable. Even if the monthly "jump" every month, the onset of ovulation is possible, but, as a rule, not in the middle of the cycle, but at the beginning or at the end.

This method is unreliable and not scientifically confirmed, but there is a hypothesis that "female" spermatozoa, that is, those that contain the X chromosome, are more tenacious, but slower. Therefore, in order to give birth to a girl, it is necessary to have sexual intercourse two to three days before the expected ovulation. It is during this time that the slow X-spermatozoa will reach the released egg and fertilize it. If you have sexual intercourse at the peak of ovulation, then fast "male" spermatozoa will outstrip female ones and there will be a boy.

Again, the method is unreliable. Spermatozoa containing the Y chromosome or "male" are more brisk and mobile, but very sensitive to the acidic environment that is in the vagina, so sexual intercourse should take place on the day of ovulation, which must be confirmed by ultrasound. "Male" spermatozoa, despite their activity, die very quickly, but if coitus was on the day of ovulation, their death will not happen yet, and "male" spermatozoa will reach the egg faster than "female" ones and fertilize it.

Question:
I play professional sports. Could this be the cause of the lack of ovulation?

Certainly. Professional sports loads are very significant, which not only leads to persistent anovulation, but also to malfunctions in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-ovarian system. Therefore, you have to choose, either professional sports and fame, or the birth of a child.

The physiological ability to conceive in women is controlled by sex hormones. To understand whether it is possible to get pregnant after ovulation, you need to understand what ovulation is, as a result of which it occurs and when.

For each woman, the menstrual cycle has its own duration: for someone from the first day of menstruation (which is the beginning of the cycle) to the onset of the next menstruation (the end of the cycle), 21 days pass, and for someone 28, 36, etc. Regularity is considered an indicator of health menstrual cycle and stability.

The menstrual cycle marks the process of maturation of the egg, its exit through the tubes into the uterine cavity, and if fertilization does not occur, its utilization during the renewal of the upper layer of the endometrium along with menstruation. Of the entire cycle, there are only 2 days when it is possible to become pregnant. This coincides with the time when a mature egg is in the uterine cavity. Usually this moment comes in the middle of a woman's cycle, for the calculation of which it is worth dividing the cycle length by two (for example, in the case of a 28-day cycle, the day of ovulation will be day 14).

Considering the fact that the egg lives only 12-24 hours, in rare cases 24-48, it is possible to get pregnant after ovulation only in the next day or two.

When is the chance of getting pregnant more?

The chance of getting pregnant is higher on the day of ovulation. In order to determine when this moment comes, today there are several methods. The most accurate of them are the method of measuring basal temperature, as well as an ovulation test. You can notice the onset of ovulation by changing the nature of vaginal discharge.

You can help determine at what time you can get pregnant using the calendar method by calculating the middle of the cycle. However, this method is not accurate, and in order to increase the chances of conception, one should take into account the 2-3 days preceding the middle, as well as 2-3 days after the expected day of ovulation. Thus, the period when you can get pregnant is 5-7 days.

However, the most suitable time for conception will be the first 12 hours of ovulation. Why it is difficult to get pregnant later is determined by the short life of the egg. In the last 12 hours, she has been nutritionally deficient, which, even if fertilized, can prevent her from attaching well to the uterine wall in order for the pregnancy to develop.

In order to increase the chances of getting pregnant, it is recommended to practice unprotected intercourse about 7 days before the onset of ovulation, as some spermatozoa have the ability to be active for several days. In this case, sex should be regular, about once every 2 days. More frequent sexual intercourse can negatively affect the quantity and quality of sperm and significantly reduce the chances of pregnancy.

What is the chance of getting pregnant after ovulation?

Is it possible to get pregnant after ovulation? To answer this question, it is necessary to consider factors that can affect the work of sex hormones, and thereby provoke a cycle failure. Become the cause of unscheduled maturation of the egg and its release into the uterine cavity,

or slow down its onset, can:

• SARS, colds and infections;
• taking certain medications;
• phytohormones;
• stress and physical strain;
• intoxication of the body, poisoning, etc.

The influence of these factors can be so strong that ovulation can occur even during menstruation. Without knowing these subtleties, many women become pregnant, as it seems to them, on the “safe” calendar days of the cycle, and therefore there is a misconception about the possibility of conception outside of ovulation.