Ovulation Basics How Do I Know I’m Ovulating?

Ovulation is when your body releases an egg from one of your ovaries. This egg lives for around 12 to 24 hours, and it’s the only time during your cycle when you can get pregnant. That’s why knowing when you ovulate is so useful when trying to conceive.

Signs Your Body Might Be Ovulating

Many people experience changes in their body when they’re close to ovulation. Some of the most common signs include:

• Clear, stretchy vaginal discharge that looks like raw egg white
• A slight rise in your body temperature, which you can track with a thermometer
• Mild twinges or pain on one side of your lower tummy (called mittelschmerz)
• Feeling more interested in sex, which is nature’s way of helping conception

You might also feel more energetic, have a slight mood lift, or even notice a heightened sense of smell.

Easy Ways to Track Ovulation

Everyone’s body is different, so finding what works for you is important. Here are simple methods:

• Ovulation tests (OPKs) pick up a hormone called LH that rises just before ovulation
• BBT (basal body temperature) charting shows a small rise in temperature after ovulation
• Fertility tracking apps can help you log signs and spot patterns over time

According to the NHS, most people ovulate about 10 to 16 days before their period. If your cycle is regular, it’s easier to predict. If it’s irregular, tracking signs or using OPKs may help.

The Emotional Side of Tracking

Keeping up with daily tracking can feel overwhelming. It’s okay to take breaks. Some people feel pressure to "get it right" every month, but learning your cycle takes time. Be gentle with yourself. If you feel anxious, talk to someone you trust or speak to a professional. Your mental health matters just as much as your physical health.

Uncommon but Talked-About Methods

All over the world, people use different methods to support ovulation. Here are a few you might come across:

• Acupuncture: Some research shows it may help balance hormones (Manheimer et al., 2007)
• Castor oil packs: A traditional method said to improve circulation, though scientific proof is limited
• Seed cycling: Eating specific seeds during different parts of your cycle. No strong evidence, but some people like the routine
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Herbs like Dong Quai are sometimes used, but always speak to a professional before trying herbs

Natural Supplements That May Support Ovulation

• Vitamin D: Low levels are linked to irregular cycles. Many people in the UK are low, especially in winter
• Omega-3s: May support hormone balance and reduce inflammation
• CoQ10: Thought to improve egg quality, especially as you get older

Speak to your GP or a fertility specialist before trying anything new, especially if you’re on medication or have a diagnosed condition.

📦 Nurturēlle’s Stickaholic Box includes ovulation tests, affirmations, and helpful guidance to support you during your fertile window.

References:

NHS (2022) When you can get pregnant. [Online] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/trying-for-a-baby/when-you-can-get-pregnant/ (Accessed: 4 June 2025).

NHS (2022) Vitamin D. [Online] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-d/ (Accessed: 4 June 2025).

Manheimer, E., Zhang, G., Udoff, L., Haramati, A., Langenberg, P., Berman, B. and Bouter, L. (2007) Effects of acupuncture on rates of pregnancy and live birth among women undergoing in vitro fertilisation: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ, 336(7643), pp.545–549.