Signs Of Ovulation

The phase of your life, when you are planning to conceive, can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when you are not sure about when it is most likely to happen, i.e., when you are ovulating. Watching out for these signs of ovulation can help you pinpoint your most fertile days.

Changes In Cervical Mucus

There is a notable change in the colour and texture of your cervical mucus when you are ovulating. It becomes clear, creamy, stretchy, and stickier than usual. The consistency is somewhat similar to that of a raw egg white. Cervical mucus is different from vaginal discharge. Its role is to ensure the smooth transportation of sperm into the uterus and fallopian tubes. 

Increased Body Temperature

There is a slight increase in your basal body temperature when you are ovulating and this is primarily due to the elevated progesterone levels. Some women may also experience a sudden drop in their body temperature right before ovulation and then a sharp increase once they start ovulating. The degrees may vary from one woman to another, however, it is usually between 0.4 F (0.22 C) to 1 F (0.56 C).

Mild Pelvic Pain

Mild pelvic pain during ovulation is quite normal and not usually a cause of concern. Also known as ‘mittelschmerz’ or ‘middle pain’, this is caused by the release of an egg by one of the ovaries. During the process, the follicle within which the egg grows ruptures to let it out, resulting in mild cramps. Ovulation pain is quite similar to menstrual pain and can last up to 2 days. 

Breast Tenderness

Your breasts may become tender or sore when you are ovulating due to hormonal changes. This is known as mastalgia and you can continue experiencing this until you start menstruating. Some women may also experience burning sensation or heaviness. It may involve either one or both breasts and the intensity varies from one person to another.

Increased Libido

Though not always, a lot of women experience increased libido or a higher sex drive when they are ovulating. One of the explanations for this could be their body’s natural desire to reproduce during this phase. This is also caused by the spike in estrogen levels. As soon as you ovulate, the estrogen levels are back to normal. 

Changes in Cervical Position

While many women may not know this, the cervix, i.e., the narrow neck of the womb, changes its position when you are ovulating, and this is due to hormonal changes during various phases of your cycle. When you are ovulating, the cervix is softer and moist. It is also a little higher than usual. This is again a biological response of the body to prepare for reproduction.

Increased Sense of Smell

During ovulation, your sense of smell becomes stronger than usual. The same smell that didn’t seem to bother you a couple of days back might just make you want to throw up. This is believed to be owing to the increase in the levels of certain hormones, such as estrogen. Some women may also have a keener sense of taste.