What Ovulation Really Tells You About Your Fertility

Why Ovulation Matters

Ovulation happens when a mature egg is released from the ovary, usually around the middle of the menstrual cycle.  For most women, this occurs about 14 days before the next period begins. That egg then travels down the fallopian  tube, where it can meet sperm and potentially lead to pregnancy. But ovulation is more than a monthly event. It’s a sign that the body’s hormones are in sync. (Source: BetterHealth)  

If you ovulate regularly, that usually means your reproductive system is working properly. Hormones like estrogen  and luteinizing hormone (LH) are rising and falling in the right pattern, and your body is preparing itself for a possible  pregnancy every month. In other words, regular ovulation is one of the strongest indicators that your body is fertile. 

Irregular or Missed Ovulation

Sometimes, ovulation doesn’t happen at all. This is called anovulation. Other times, it happens irregularly, making  it difficult to predict. Both of these situations can make it harder to conceive. If you’re tracking your cycle and notice  missed periods or very irregular patterns, it could be a sign that something’s off hormonally. 

Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and high levels of stress can all affect ovulation.  Even weight changes, intense exercise, or lack of sleep can have an impact. When ovulation doesn’t happen, the  body doesn’t release an egg, which means there’s no chance of pregnancy that cycle. That’s why paying attention  to ovulation is so important when you’re trying to conceive. (Source: MedicineNet)  

Signs You’re Ovulating

Some people can feel when they’re ovulating, while others might not notice any changes. But there are a few signs  that can help you figure out when it’s happening. A slight rise in body temperature, changes in cervical mucus, and  mild abdominal discomfort (sometimes referred to as mittelschmerz) are all common symptoms. Ovulation  predictor kits can also help track LH surges to pinpoint ovulation more accurately. 

If you’re noticing these signs regularly, that’s usually a good indication that your body is ovulating. But if these signs  are missing or unpredictable, it could be worth talking to a fertility specialist to dig deeper. 

What Ovulation Tells You About Hormones

Ovulation is closely tied to hormonal health. If ovulation is happening regularly, your estrogen, LH, and  progesterone levels are likely cycling as they should. But if ovulation is missing, it could signal a hormonal imbalance.  Testing hormone levels at specific times during your cycle can help reveal what’s happening beneath the surface. (Source: Inside Tracker) Sometimes, treatment is as simple as managing stress, adjusting your diet, or getting more  sleep. In other cases, medication may be needed to help the body ovulate regularly again. 

Taking Control of Your Fertility

Understanding ovulation is one of the easiest and most effective ways to get insight into your fertility. Tracking your  cycle, recognizing signs of ovulation, and noticing irregularities can help you understand what your body is telling  you. If something feels off, getting support early can make a difference.  

Sources:  

BetterHealth - Betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/ovulation 

MedicineNet - Medicinenet.com/can_you_get_pregnant_without_ovulating/article.htm Inside Tracker - Insidetracker.com/a/articles/blood-test-during-period