Ovulation: The Egg Story in a Nutshell!
“Dreams may be conceived as the ovulation of fate when they hold the possibility of becoming more than a concept or idea.” — Drew Platt
When your dream is a child, the whole concept of ovulation becomes more important than fate. Millions of babies are born every day, yet ask every mom how she conceived — and everyone will tell you a fascinating story filled with personal experiences, drama, and every human emotion possible.
Your Preconception Checklist
Follow a healthy diet — eat freshly cooked and prepared food
Take folic acid for three months before conception
Develop and maintain a consistent exercise routine
Have all basic tests covered
Consider genetic and family history
Stop smoking, limit alcohol intake and any other social drugs
Reduce or stop caffeine intake
Review current medications and keep in constant touch with your gynaecologist
What Is Ovulation?
Ovulation is an integral part of the menstrual cycle, in which the mature ovarian follicle releases an egg. The process captures the passage of the egg down the fallopian tube, where it could potentially meet and be fertilised by the sperm. Ovulation is regulated by the hypothalamus and usually occurs between day 10 and day 19 of the menstrual cycle — fertility is at its peak during this time.
The Fertile Window
Peak fertility is a short window of opportunity — just a few days each month — when getting pregnant becomes possible. The ovum can stay alive for approximately 24 hours after release. Sperm, on the other hand, can survive for up to five days inside the womb and vagina. This gives a fertile window of approximately six days: five days before ovulation and 24 hours after release of the ovum.
Statistically speaking, peak fertility comes down to two days before ovulation and the 24 hours after the egg is released. If you can identify your 72-hour fertile window accurately and time intercourse, your chances of getting pregnant are vastly improved.
Tracking Your Cycle
There are many indicators that a woman might be ovulating — increased volume and thickness of cervical mucus, and a slight increase in body temperature caused by progesterone. Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) help women detect exact dates for ovulation through increases in LH levels in urine. Smartphone fertility trackers like Ovia and Glow can also record period and intercourse dates, mood, symptoms, and medications.
Information is invaluable, but too much of it can be overwhelming. The best advice: read to learn, and don’t think too much.
Plan Your Baby’s Health Before Day One
MapmyGenome offers preconception genetic counselling and Babymap carrier screening — helping couples understand their genetic risks and make informed decisions before and during pregnancy. Backed by certified genetic counsellors and a CAP & NABL-accredited laboratory.
