Understanding Ovulation:
Ovulation is the release of a mature egg from the ovary, typically occurring once per menstrual cycle. After release, the egg lives for about 12-24 hours.
The fertile window is the period during which sexual intercourse is most likely to result in pregnancy. It includes the 5 days leading up to ovulation, the day of ovulation itself, and sometimes the day after ovulation. This is because sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days.
Your luteal phase is the time from ovulation until the start of your next period. It is usually quite consistent, lasting 12 to 16 days, with 14 days being the most common. You can input your specific luteal phase length, or it will default to 14 days for the calculation.
Factors that can influence ovulation and cycle:
- Stress and lifestyle changes
- Significant weight fluctuations
- Intense exercise
- Certain medications or health conditions (e.g., PCOS)
This calculator provides an estimate based on average values. For more precise tracking, consider using ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) or basal body temperature (BBT) charting, and always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding fertility and family planning.
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