Can I get pregnant on my period?
It is unlikely, but possible. If you have a very short cycle (e.g., 21 days), you could ovulate as early as Day 7. If you have sex on Day 5 (end of period), sperm could survive until Day 7. It's rare, but it happens.
What if I don't have 'egg white' mucus?
Not everyone sees it. You might still be fertile. Hydration plays a big role—drink plenty of water to improve mucus quality. If you are consistently dry, talk to your doctor about 'hostile cervical mucus.'
Does the pill affect my fertility later?
No. Most women return to their natural cycle within 1-3 months of stopping the pill. Long-term use of birth control does not cause infertility, though it may mask underlying issues like irregular periods.
How do I know if I actually ovulated?
A calculator predicts when you *should* ovulate. To confirm it happened, track your Basal Body Temperature (BBT)—it spikes by about 0.5°F *after* ovulation due to progesterone. Progesterone blood tests (Day 21) can also confirm it.
When should I see a doctor?
If you are under 35 and have been trying for 12 months, or over 35 and trying for 6 months, see a specialist. If you have irregular periods or painful cycles, go sooner.
Can I get pregnant after ovulation?
The egg only lives for 12-24 hours. Once it disintegrates, conception is impossible until the next cycle. This is why the 'fertile window' closes about 24 hours after ovulation.
Does stress delay ovulation?
Yes. High stress triggers the 'fight or flight' response, which can tell the hypothalamus to pause reproduction. This can lead to a 'late' period, even if you aren't pregnant.
What is the 'implantation dip'?
Some women notice a slight one-day drop in BBT about 7-10 days after ovulation, possibly due to an estrogen surge during implantation. It's a potential early pregnancy sign, but not guaranteed.
Are ovulation tests accurate?
Yes, OPKs are about 99% accurate at detecting the LH surge. However, they only predict that ovulation is *coming* (in 24-36 hours); they don't confirm that the egg was actually released.
How often should we have sex?
Every day or every other day during the fertile window is ideal. Daily sex yields slightly higher pregnancy rates, but every other day is nearly as effective and less stressful for many couples.