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Using Ovulation Test Strips to Detect Your Most Fertile Time



Using Ovulation Test Strips to Detect Ovulation
There are instances in which a woman may have a positive ovulation test result, but not ovulate. Some women can experience false mini-peaks of luteinizing hormone LH — the hormone released in a surge right before ovulation which is detected in urine by the ovulation tests before their actual peak. Women over 40 can have elevated levels of LH throughout their cycle, putting them at risk for false positives. OPKs can also give false negatives. Or, her body may not produce enough LH for the OPK to register a positive result, even though she did actually ovulate. Certain drugs can throw off the validity of OPKs.


The Best Ovulation Predictor Kits
Many couples rely on ovulation predictor kits, or OPKs, to identify when the woman is most fertile. An OPK can detect a surge in the production of luteinizing hormone LH , which occurs roughly 36 hours before ovulation. The accuracy of OPKs relies on the fact that by timing intercourse shortly after the LH surge, you can increase your odds of bringing sperm and egg together at the time when conception is most likely to occur. Sounds easy, right? In a perfect world, ovulation prediction kits would infallibly detect ovulation, and ovulation would inevitably lead to pregnancy.

Leiva has conducted several studies on the pros and cons of home fertility monitoring methods. But using them correctly can be a little tricky. Also, a woman has to test herself at the appropriate time in her cycle. If she tests too early or too late, she may miss or fail to identify her LH surge. Some women, including those approaching menopause or taking fertility-enhancing drugs, may not be able to rely on LH levels to predict ovulation, says Dr.