Ovulation predictor test is very helpful when planning conception. This test is done with the help of ovulation predictor kit. This test detects the presence of luteinizing hormone which is present at the time of ovulation. This test detects the exact date of ovulation thereby helping in successful conception. Let us know in detail about ovulation predictor test.

The ovulation predictor test is done with the help of the ovulation predictor kit or OPK. It helps the individual to become specifically aware about the exact dates when she is going to ovulate. There is a certain amount of skepticism on the physicians recommending this option as there are some doubts regarding its accuracy, but on a whole people are deriving benefits from it. Since there are a lot of factors that determine the effectiveness of this OPK, it can be safely considered that once these factors are taken care of, the results are beneficial. It helps the couple to plan the conception following an intercourse or through an IUI, if the case so requires.

The Purpose of OPK

The time span of the OPK is just 12-48 hours. The objective of the test is to detect the presence of the LH, or the luetenizing hormone. The presence of this hormone in the blood entails that the ovaries are ready to release the egg and accordingly, the woman or the couple can plan the conception through natural or artificial means. It is important to note here that some women are found to have a surge of the luetenizing hormone and the test will also reveal this fact. The instruction in such a condition is usually is to go for an intercourse within 48 hours after noticing the first positive surge. Maintaining a chart is a great way to know the fertility signs. Although this method is a tad costly, the accuracy with which you are able to maintain the chart will substantially reduce the costs by reducing the trials. 

The ovulation predictor test can be of two types:

1. Urine test – Here the presence of the leutinizing hormone is detected from a urine sample.

2. Saliva test – Here the estrogen levels in the saliva is measured.

Just before the ovulation, the leutinizing hormone surges. This can be detected by testing the urine sample. There is a chance of successful conception around 36 hours before the ovulation occurs and 24 hours when the ovulation is taking place. The conception needs to be planned within this time period as the egg lives for just 24 hours after the ovulation.

For the Urine Test

The ovulation predictor kit is akin to the over-the-counter pregnancy test kits. There is a test strip and the urination must be allowed to fall on the test strip while mid-stream. A line appears near to the control line as an indication of the amount of LH present in the urine. The line is known as the test result line. If you find this line in the same shade or of a darker shade compared to the control line, it entails that there is a hormone surge. The surge is usually noticed 12-36 hours ahead of the ovulation. This helps a great deal to plan the conception. The testing can be done in the morning, but the surge does not show according to your estimated chart, then the test can be repeated in the afternoon and evening, so that the surge is not ‘missed’.   

For the Saliva Test

The test kit comprises of a microscopic device, where the sample is placed right on the lens. It can detect ovulation at least 72 hours ahead of time. The individual needs to swish the saliva in the inside of the mouth and place it on the test slide while it is fresh. There will be a transition phase where you will notice ferns or bubbles. If it is just a fern like pattern, it indicates that you are nearing ovulation. If there are just tiny bubbles, it means that you are not ovulating.