Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) are home urine tests that detect impending ovulation by measuring luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, which surge to trigger egg release. These kits, also known as ovulation tests, can either be test strips or resemble pregnancy test sticks.
Using an Ovulation Test Kit
The test kit may include paper strips or a stick similar to a pregnancy test. For the stick version, you urinate on the tip; for the strip version, you dip it into a cup of your urine. The results indicate whether you might ovulate soon, helping you time intercourse to increase the chances of conception. Typically, after a positive result, it’s recommended to have sex daily for the next few days. Consult your OB/GYN for personalized advice on timing and frequency.
Do Ovulation Test Kits Work?
Studies suggest ovulation tests can improve your chances of getting pregnant if used correctly and followed by timely intercourse. An alternative is to have sex daily or every other day between days 8 and 19 of your cycle, though OPKs can be particularly useful if your periods are irregular.
How to Choose an OPK
There are various OPKs available, with Clearblue Easy and First Response being popular brands. Prices vary based on technology, with digital tests being the most expensive. The Clearblue Easy Fertility Monitor, which detects both LH and estrogen, can identify more fertile days compared to paper strips. Paper test strips are cheaper and often sold in bulk online, though they can be harder to interpret due to the need to compare line darkness.
How Ovulation Tests Work
OPKs detect LH levels in urine. The LH surge, occurring about 36 hours before ovulation, indicates that the egg is nearing release. The Clearblue Easy Fertility Monitor also detects estrogen, which rises before LH, giving additional early warning of ovulation.
Using an Ovulation Test Kit
Follow the specific instructions for your kit. Generally, start testing a few days before expected ovulation. If unsure, use an ovulation calculator, chart, or fertility app. For the Clearblue Easy Fertility Monitor, begin on the first day of your period. If your cycles are irregular, test according to the earliest and latest possible ovulation dates. Kits with multiple strips are helpful in such cases. Consult your OB/GYN for tailored advice.
Reading the Results
OPKs have two lines: a control line and a test line. When the test line is as dark or darker than the control line, LH is surging, indicating it’s time to have intercourse.
Pros and Cons of OPKs
OPKs can be used alongside methods like BBT charting or cervical mucus checking for more assurance and better understanding of your cycle. However, they can sometimes give false positives and may not work well for those with PCOS, who may experience multiple LH surges. Unlike BBT charting, OPKs indicate upcoming ovulation, not that it has already occurred. They are more convenient as they don’t need to be used immediately upon waking.
Analyzing the Results
If you test positive, have sex daily or every other day for the next 3-5 days. If you don’t get a positive result, you might have started testing too early or too late. Knowing your typical ovulation time helps. If you consistently don’t get a positive result or have irregular cycles, consult a healthcare provider.
Detecting Early Pregnancy
While ovulation tests can sometimes detect pregnancy due to the similarity between LH and the pregnancy hormone hCG, they are not as reliable as pregnancy tests. For accurate results, use a dedicated pregnancy test.
