Using ovulation tests: this is how it works

If you want to get pregnant, it’s important to know when your most fertile days are.
One way of getting a better grip on this is by using ovulation tests. These tests can help you pinpoint the right moment for conception. But how exactly do they work? And what can and can’t they do for you?

What is an ovulation test?

An ovulation test is a urine test that measures whether the hormone LH (luteinising hormone) is present at elevated levels. This so-called LH surge occurs just before ovulation. The test therefore helps you recognise the most fertile moment of your cycle.

Please note: an ovulation test only predicts when ovulation is approaching; it does not prove whether ovulation actually takes place. You can have an LH surge without ovulating.

When should I start testing?

Regular cycle 
With a regular cycle, you usually start testing around cycle day 10 (day 1 is the first day of your period). If your cycle is shorter or longer, this may shift; if in doubt, always check with your doctor. You can use ovulation tests at home to detect the LH surge. Based on the result, you will be advised on the best time for intercourse or insemination.

Irregular cycle
Do you have an irregular cycle or no idea when you ovulate? Then it is sometimes necessary to test for a longer period or to consider other methods, in consultation with your doctor. 

Fertility treatment
During fertility treatment it is important to start testing at the right time; the timing of ovulation is essential to increase the chance of successful treatment.

Your doctor will give you timely and detailed information about when to start and the daily testing times. Information about when to start testing for each treatment can be found on our treatment pages.

What does the test result mean?

• If no test line or only a faint test line appears, the result is negative.
• If the test line is as dark as or darker than the control line, the test is positive. Ovulation is then expected within 24 to 48 hours.

Different types of ovulation tests

All kinds of ovulation tests are available in shops or, for example, from the webshop of 
Serpha Pharmacy. You can choose which test you use, but always use tests of the same brand within one cycle. Different brands can give different results, which causes unnecessary confusion and stress.

The test we have had the best experience with is the digital ovulation test. This test clearly shows whether the result is positive, without you having to interpret the test lines yourself. 

My test stays (unexpectedly) negative – what now?

Based on a scan or months of regular cycles, had you expected your ovulation test to be positive long ago, but it keeps showing a negative result? Then please contact us, so that we can look at the options together.

Insight into your cycle?

Would you like more insight into your cycle, or are you unsure whether you ovulate at all? Then book an intake consultation with us. Together we will discuss which method suits you best to increase your chances of pregnancy.