Trying to get pregnant seems like it would be easy, right? After all, conception is completely natural. But there’s really a lot more to it than that. In order to take advantage of your optimal fertile moments, you’ll need to utilize ovulation predictors and calculators to know the best times to conceive. You should also have a good idea of the signs and symptoms of ovulation.

Signs and Symptoms of Ovulation

Ovulation can be quite subtle but you can detect it if you’re in tune with your body. Some common symptoms include:

1. Pain around the lower abdomen
2. Cervical mucus that appears similar to egg whites
3. An elevated basal body temperature
4. A positive result on an ovulation predicator test
5. The appearance of “ferning” on a fertility microscope

How to Use Ovulation Calculators

Ovulation calculators are often used to determine exactly when it is you will ovulate to maximize your chances of conceiving. They work by entering in information about your menstrual cycle and then you’ll receive a prediction of when you will ovulate.

Ovulation calculators work by helping you figure out the dates of your menstrual cycle without the complications of on ovulation calendar. Another way to figure out when you will ovulate is to use an ovulation predictor test kit. These come in several different types. For instance, there are ovulation tests that utilize a cassette testing system wherein you’ll place a few drops of urine in the testing well and then read your results.

Another form of ovulation predictor is the saliva test. These tests work by taking a small sample of your saliva, placing it on a microscope and viewing the sample. The sample will appear crystallized if you are ovulating. The great thing about this type of test is that the saliva collection, sample well and microscope are all included in the same device. Plus you can carry it around with you in your purse or what have you.