For many, the idea of pregnancy and fertility can seem like a random process. However, fertility follows a natural cycle—and knowing how to track this cycle can help you prevent or plan for pregnancy. 

Here’s what you need to know about your most fertile days and how to track them. (Think you might be pregnant? We’re here to help. We offer free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and a safe space to talk.)

The Menstrual Cycle and Fertility

Your menstrual cycle is divided into several phases: the menstrual phase (period), the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. While pregnancy is possible only during a small window, sperm can survive in your body for up to 5 days, extending the fertile window. 

Ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary, typically occurs around the midpoint of a regular cycle, and it’s the point in your cycle when you’re most fertile.

For a woman with an average 28-day cycle, ovulation generally happens around day 14. The fertile window includes the 5 days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation itself. If you have a shorter or longer cycle, ovulation may occur earlier or later, adjusting your fertile window.

Signs of Ovulation

Tracking ovulation can help you identify your most fertile days. Common signs include:

• Cervical mucus changes: Fertile cervical mucus becomes clear, stretchy, and resembles egg whites.
• Basal body temperature (BBT): A slight increase in your BBT, measured first thing in the morning, often follows ovulation.
• Ovulation pain: Some women feel mild cramping or discomfort on one side of the lower abdomen during ovulation.

Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) are also helpful. These over-the-counter tests detect the surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) that occurs right before ovulation.

Think You Might Be Pregnant? 

If you’re worried there’s a chance you might be pregnant, taking a pregnancy test is the first step to finding out. And if the result is positive, ultrasound is the next step.

At Crossroads Care Clinic, we offer both services for free because we believe finances shouldn’t be a barrier to receiving the care you deserve.

 You’re not in this alone. Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment.