What You Need to Know About Tracking Ovulation to Get Pregnant

Ovulation tracking can help you pinpoint your most fertile days, increasing your chances of getting pregnant naturally. In this post, we’ll break down what ovulation is, how to track it effectively, and when it might be time to seek help from a fertility specialist. 

 

What Is Ovulation? 

Ovulation is the part of your menstrual cycle when one of your ovaries releases an egg. This usually occurs midway through the cycle, typically around day 12-14 of a 28-day cycle, though it can vary from person to person. 

Once released, the egg travels down the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm. Since the egg only survives for 12–24 hours after ovulation, timing intercourse around this window is key for conception. Sperm can live in the reproductive tract for up to 5 days—meaning your fertile window is about 5–6 days (prior to ovulation) each cycle. 

 

Ways to Track Ovulation 

Here are the most common and effective ways to pinpoint ovulation: 

1. Menstrual Cycle Tracking 

Start by tracking your period over several months. Ovulation usually happens about 14 days before your next period. So, if you have a 28-day cycle, ovulation likely occurs around day 14. But keep in mind—everyone’s cycle is different. 

2. Basal Body Temperature (BBT) 

Your body temperature slightly increases (about 0.5°F or 0.3°C) after ovulation due to rising progesterone. By taking your temperature first thing every morning before getting out of bed and charting it over time, you can identify your pattern. 

BBT tracking confirms ovulation after it happens, so it’s most helpful for learning your cycle trends. 

3. Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs) 

These kits detect a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) in your urine, which happens 24–36 hours before ovulation. They're easy to use at home and widely available at drugstores. 

4. Cervical Mucus Monitoring 

Around ovulation, cervical mucus becomes clear, stretchy, and similar to raw egg whites. This fertile mucus helps sperm travel more easily. Monitoring these changes can help you identify your fertile days. 

5. Fertility Apps & Wearables 

Many apps help track menstrual cycles, symptoms, and fertile windows using predictive algorithms. These tools can be a great support, especially if you’re not sure where to start. However, it is important to understand that they rely on average data and may not be completely accurate for irregular cycles.