Ovulation Tests

[NaeNae]

Hi All,

I was wondering about these tests - I brought something with my last pregnancy and got a kit containing 5 tests for free.

Just decided to do one the other day and the test line was fainter than the control line IYKWIM.

Now according to the instructions the test measures the LH? which apparently is more intense 2 days before ovulation occurs or something. So when are you meant to DTD?

Can anyone please explain in laments terms how these work whether or not it has assisted them in TTC or if I will be adding more and unnecessary pressure to the process when we do start TTC again.

Not much longer now

Nae x

[Jaxi]

Hi Nae

The way these ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) work is that they are supposed to detect the LH surge indicating ovulation is going to occur within the next 12-36hrs. Most work in a way that you only count it as a positive when the test line is the same colour or darker than the control line. A lighter test line should be taken to be a negative. As soon as the OPK confirms a positive the idea is to BD away as you are most likely going to be ovulating within the next day or so.

Sometimes they take a bit of getting used to. I personally don't know what I'd do without OPKs as my ovulation day has changed slightly every cycle (usually within the same 3-5 days) but at least I know exactly when I'm ovulating and can ensure I don't miss BDing at the crucial time. I have yet to fall pregnant but have other issues...will keep on trying.

You may want to check out the OPK review thread in the conception general discussion forum for more information.

Wishing you the best of luck!!!

[ShootingStar]

With OPK's the test line will always be there.. so you will always have 2 lines no matter what time of the month you do it, ovulating or not. It is just when that test line is the same or darker than the control line is when you are close to ovulating. Once you see that darker test line, you are usually due to ovulate from 12-36 hours afterwards, so any time i guess you see that line the same as the control line, go for gold!

I used OPKS with DD was we were swaying for a girl and wanted to know when i ovulated for my cut off. They worked will for me.

Best of luck.

[blackduckies]

Nae I use them as well, well I did..... As the others have said they can take some getting used to and I have had a couple of cycles where i apparently did'nt O (never got that darker line). If your cycle has gone back to how it used to be, I would say just DTD!!! if it's a bit hit and miss they are a good tool.

[NaeNae]

Thanks Ladies
I don't think I will use them after giving it some thought. I was just curious how they worked after all I don't seem to have a problem actually falling pregnant I guess I am lucky like that ..... my problem is more getting to that 40 week mark
Nae x x

[Counting Days]

we have been using Maybe baby and ovulation tests however can not seem to get a positive result

I will keep trying over the next few days as to should be happening very soon

Also we are off to the acupuncturist tomorrow to see if that can help the process along, has anyone had any luck with them