Ovulation Tests Do's and Don’ts

When it comes to ovulation testing, be sure to follow these Do’s and Don’ts for best results!

DO test between 10am and 8pm DON’T use first morning urine.

While pregnancy tests rely on the concentration of first morning urine, ovulation tests are generally best used in the afternoon or evening, as that is when the luteinizing hormone (LH) levels tend to be the highest. 

DO use the Premom Ovulation Tracker app to read your ovulation test results. 

Lay your ovulation test flat on a white or light colored surface in regular lighting -- not too bright or too dark - and use your Premom app and phone’s camera to take a picture of the test strip.

The app will use its smart technology to identify if the test strip is reading low, high or peak and charts it accordingly for you! "High" levels mean you are nearing your fertile window, while a “Peak” reading lets you know you’ll likely be ovulating within 24 hours! If you get a "Low" reading, it means you just need to keep testing through your "Peak" day.

Try free Premom ovulation tracker app

DON'T miss your LH surge DO test twice a day 

There are two LH surge patterns. The first is the gradual LH surge pattern, which occurs over the course of a few days; you’ll notice LH levels increasing for a few days before you find your actual “peak” day. 

The second is the rapid LH surge pattern, which occurs quickly, over the course of a few hours within one day. Because nearly 50% of women have this pattern, we recommend testing twice a day just to be sure you don’t miss your peak!  

DO start testing before your estimated fertile window. 

Start testing the day after your period ends, around cycle day 5. Your ovulation date can be slightly different every cycle; only about 30% of women have their fertile window entirely within the clinical guidelines of cycle days 10-17, so it’s important to continuously use ovulation tests to ensure you don’t miss your ovulation day!

DO keep your water intake consistent.  

Try to keep your water intake the same for the 2 hours before testing. It’s best to not dilute your urine too much so that test results remain consistent each day that you are testing.

DO test at least 8 times in the first half of your cycle.

We find users have a higher likelihood of finding their LH peak if they are testing at least 8 or more days in their cycle, 1-2 times a day. Give your self the best chance at pregnancy by testing enough for your cycle length.

Finally, let’s run through how to take an ovulation test:

  1. Start testing after the last day of your period
  2. Test your urine between 10am and 8pm
  3. Dip the ovulation strip up to the max line and allow the dye to rise through the testing window
  4. Lay the strip flat on a light colored surface
  5. Set your timer for 5 minutes
  6. Use your Premom app to take a picture of the strip and analyze your results!
  7. Keep testing 1-2 times daily until you find your LH peak, and then test a couple more days as your levels decrease
  8. Perform intercourse the 5 days prior to and on your ovulation day!

In need of tests? Premom quantitative ovulation test strips and Easy@Home ovulation predictor kits are my personal favorites, because of how well they work with the app. I trust their quality, and they’re easy to use!  Download the free companion Premom app to get started!

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