5 Best Ovulation Tests to Find Your Fertile Days, Based on Our Testing
When you’re trying to conceive, having a reliable, accurate ovulation test can greatly enhance your chances of success. After all, knowledge is power, and one way to up the ante on your efforts (you know, besides getting busy!) is with a little bit of education and some solid data. That can mean charting your cycle and predicting your most fertile days, or, if counting isn’t your strong suit, you could also try using an ovulation kit.
Of course, there are a ton of ovulation tests available to you, and the differences can be overwhelming. As a mother of three who used ovulation tests to successfully conceive with my second pregnancy, and as a nurse who’s seen many women use these tests to conceive, I understand the importance of finding the right ovulation test. Women with predictable cycles can likely get away with more basic, less expensive options, while those with irregular cycles may want to opt for an advanced digital testing system that offers more insight into their fertility. “There are simple test strips that are very similar to urine pregnancy tests, and there are digital tests that can evaluate the results electronically,” explains Shaun Williams, MD, a reproductive endocrinologist at Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut.
Wondering which is the best ovulation test for you? I personally tried and tested multiple ovulation predictor kits and narrowed down the list based on options that are not only user-friendly and accurate, but also help you learn more about your body and fertility status. Keep reading for more expert guidance, and to discover the best ovulation test options for pinpointing your peak fertile days.
The Bump editors did extensive research into the needs and current pain points of women who are trying to conceive, and created a shortlist of leading ovulation test kits on the market designed to meet those specific needs. From there we took the following steps:
- Over two years I personally tested 12 ovulation tests and monitors throughout at least one full menstrual cycle apiece. I wore the wearable devices as instructed and peed on all the sticks at the specified times based on data from the last six months of my period tracking app.
- Once the trial period was complete I evaluated each ovulation test, with scores ranging from 1 to 10 (1 being the worst and 10 being the best). I rated each test based on ease of use, clarity of results, quality of the app or monitor device, accuracy, overall experience and value for money.
- We surveyed more than 650 new and expectant parents in The Bump community to rate the ovulation tests they used while trying to conceive.
- To see how these tests worked for a variety of women on their conception journey, we scoured online forums, external message boards and customer reviews to find out what people across the country were saying about the ovulation tests they’ve used.
- We interviewed three board-certified ob-gyns who specialize in reproductive endocrinology and infertility to get the lowdown on how ovulation tests work and how to read your ovulation test results.
- We consulted medical sources like the American Pregnancy Association (APA) and the National Library of Medicine for information on how to track your menstrual cycle and test for ovulation.
Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read more about how The Bump develops our product reviews.
Best ovulation test for basic ovulation insights
- Clear digital results
- Easy to use and read
- Identifies 4-day fertility window
- Not recommended for women with PCOS
- Test doesn't provide in-depth information about your cycle
If you’re in the early stages of trying for a baby, or simply want an easy-to-read ovulation test, we recommend the Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test. While there are tests that provide more extensive tracking and insights into your fertility, reams of numerical data can be overwhelming for those who are just starting out, or frustrating to those who just need a heads up that their most fertile days are approaching.
It's no surprise that the Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test earned a Best of The Bump award for the third year in a row. (See all of this year’s Best of The Bump winners.) This ovulation test kit scored particularly well for ease of use, accuracy and overall user experience. I appreciate that the test provides a wider fertile window (up to four days, compared to two) than your average test in this price range since it tracks two hormones instead of one: luteinizing hormone (LH) and (less commonly tracked) estrogen. Clearblue also recently added an app to its suite of products that allows you to track your results and get personalized insights based on your unique cycle patterns. I tested the app and found it to be user-friendly, visually appealing and packed with helpful information.
I loved this test, but you don’t have to just take my word—we also received a ton of positive feedback from our community members who have used this test successfully. “I used this ovulation test for two of my pregnancies, and both times I became pregnant after just one cycle!” says Ashlee Neuman, mom of two and content director for The Bump. “I loved how straightforward it was to use and how accurate it proved to be. For those looking for a basic, reliable test that’s super user-friendly, this is a standout choice.”
How it works
This urine test looks at two hormones: LH, which surges just before ovulation, and estrone-3-glucuronide (E3G), which surges shortly before LH. By tracking both hormones, the Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test pinpoints up to four fertile days, compared to a two-day window on similar tests. A flashing smiley face appears during high fertility, followed by a static smiley face when peak fertility is detected. Once you receive a positive result, the static smiley face will remain for 48 hours and you no longer need to test during your current cycle. An empty circle indicates low fertility, in which you continue testing daily until you reach peak fertility.
How easy is it to use?
I loved the simplicity of this test. Unlike other ovulation tests that require interpretation of lines or color changes, the Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test clearly displays an icon to indicate fertility status. I also appreciated the reusable test holder, which you insert the test stick into for your results. To use, simply hold the absorbent tip of the test in your first-morning urine stream for three seconds and wait five minutes for your digital results. If you prefer not to pee directly on the stick, you can also dip the test into a collected urine sample for 15 seconds, before waiting for the results.
Our survey respondents gave this test high marks for ease of use, with several stating that the clarity of results was a major plus. “This kit was recommended by the fertility specialist, and it worked well for us. I used this on my own and got pregnant successfully,” says Samantha. I also found the Clearblue Advanced Digital accurate in predicting my peak fertility day, which was confirmed by other fertility tracking methods.
Number of tests: 20 | Wait time for results: 5 minutes | FSA/HSA reimbursable: Yes
Our product tester says:
“I would specifically recommend this test to someone looking for an easy and affordable digital option without exact numerical data. I think the numerical data can cause confusion for beginners or those unfamiliar with ovulation tests, so this test is a great option for those just starting out."
Our community says:
I like the clarity and ease of use. – Erica, mom-to-be and The Bump survey respondent
I like that it told me if it was positive or negative vs trying to interpret lines. I also liked that it came from a reputable company and was available in stores and online. – Taylor, mom-to-be and The Bump survey respondent
Best ovulation test for detailed fertility insights
- Tracks four hormones
- Identifies up to 6 fertile days
- App guides you through each step
- Can customize how your results are displayed
- Only compatible with iPhone users
- Have to remove phone case to use
Looking for an ovulation tracker that can shed some light on your cycle? The Inito Fertility Monitor is a top option for folks who are further along in their TTC journey and require more in-depth fertility insights.
Inito uses one ovulation test strip (and a compatible app) to track four different fertility hormones: LH, E3G, pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG)—the marker of progesterone found in urine, which confirms that you’ve ovulated—and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which usually spikes right before an egg is released by the ovary. FSH data can also provide insight into the health of your eggs. Tracking this many hormones at once can be extremely helpful for women with irregular cycles, because you’re not relying on any one hormone surge. Inito gives you hard numerical data for each hormone, along with cycle tracking and predictions, all to help you base your pregnancy planning on as much information as possible.
Based on my experience, I would highly recommend this Best of The Bump-winning kit—provided you have an iPhone. It gives detailed results on four hormones and still manages to be quite user-friendly and affordable (for what it is); similar products tend to retail for about $100 to $170, and their monthly refill strips are more costly than Inito. However, the included peripheral device that makes it all possible isn’t compatible with Android phones, so it won’t work for everyone.
How it works
Unlike some digital tests that use a standalone monitor, Inito is a small device that snaps onto your iPhone's camera. After removing your phone case and attaching the clip, you dip the test strips into a first-morning urine sample for 15 seconds and insert the strip into the device. The app then uses the camera's light and lens to take a picture of the strip, analyzes your ovulation test results and gives you a numerical value for each hormone. Results for all four hormones display in the app after just 10 minutes.
How easy is it to use?
This is one of my favorite ovulation tests because the app tells you exactly what to do. You download the app, create an account and connect the device to your phone via Bluetooth. The app guides you through the setup process and each test with step-by-step instructions. You can see each hormone level on an easy-to-read graph, which can be customized to only show select hormones. You can also manually add your basal body temperature (BBT) if you're tracking it. As with any test, you should familiarize yourself with each hormone being tested and their role in fertility—and there are quite a few to familiarize yourself with—but once you do, the results are easy to understand. I love having the option to view all my results at once or one hormone at a time. Plus, the app pinpoints up to six fertile days each cycle, which is more than most others.
Again, you have to have a compatible iPhone for it to work. The phone clip is also specific to your phone's model, so if you upgrade your phone, you'll also need to buy a new phone clip.
Number of tests: 15 | Wait time for results: 10 minutes | FSA/HSA reimbursable: Yes
Our product tester says:
"Based on my experience, I would highly recommend this. It's very user-friendly, plus it gives detailed results for four hormones versus one or two. Not everyone needs all four hormones, but it's a great option for those who want to track multiple hormones and have an iPhone."
Best wearable ovulation tracker
- Tracks basal body temperature and six other metrics while you sleep
- In-depth health data
- Quickly syncs with smartphone app
- Good option for PCOS
- High price point
- Strap is somewhat difficult to adjust
- Battery only lasts for one night
The Ava Bracelet, a Best of The Bump winner for best wearable ovulation tracker, combines the advanced technology of a fertility tracker with the convenience of a wearable device. Wearables are surging in popularity and come in different forms (bracelet, ring, armband, etc.), but Ava is currently the only wearable fertility tracking device that’s FDA-cleared. Because it collects hours worth of data on your body temperature while you sleep, it can be more accurate than taking your BBT with a thermometer once a day. And while BBT-trackers are generally not as accurate as hormone-tracking devices, Ava can be an especially good option for women with PCOS, who may have higher baseline levels of LH that produce false positives on hormonal ovulation tests.
There are a number of great wearable ovulation trackers on the market, but Ava stood out in my product testing for its comfort, ease of use and excellent app that you can use to log cycle data and symptoms to help track your fertility. I was most impressed by the app’s interface, which was incredibly easy to navigate, and loved the "Health Data" section, which gives you a great overview of your metrics each day and provides more insights than others I tested.
Wearable trackers are an investment, and at $239, Ava is no exception. But they tend to offer good value in the long run because you don't have to buy replacement test strips each month—and sometimes, to get a reliable view of your cycle, you have to test for several months. And while you can find less expensive wearables on the market, Ava justifies the price tag with its impressive user-friendliness and in-depth data offerings.
How it works
The bracelet has a small sensor that tracks seven metrics each night while you sleep, including your skin temperature, resting pulse rate, breathing rate, sleep and heart rate variability ratio. You wear it on your non-dominant wrist like a traditional bracelet, and it has an adjustable strap to ensure the right fit. Each morning when you wake, you sync your data by opening the app on your smartphone (which is paired to the bracelet via Bluetooth) and pressing the button in the app that says "sync my data." It takes up to 60 seconds to transfer the data from the bracelet to your phone, plus another minute or two to get the updated insights.
You can toggle through your health by day to view each metric and compare results from previous days, weeks or months. You can also use the calendar feature to track your menstrual cycle, intercourse, symptoms, mood and the results of any physical ovulation tests you have taken, though it isn't necessary for using the bracelet. You can also see your fertile window and predicted ovulation date based on the data collected by the bracelet.
How easy is it to use?
The instructions are straightforward, and I found the bracelet very user-friendly. It only took a few minutes to download the app and create my account. I answered questions about my cycle and synced the bracelet to my phone by connecting it to a power source and following the in-app prompts. After charging the bracelet throughout the day, I wore it to bed and let it collect data while I slept. The next morning, I removed the bracelet and opened the app to start the syncing process. After just a few minutes, I could see all of my data displayed in easy-to-read charts and graphs.
The bracelet is super comfortable to wear: It didn't irritate my skin or feel bulky, and it didn’t disrupt my sleep. The only downside I experienced was that the bracelet strap was somewhat hard to adjust—I ended up asking my husband for help a couple nights because I couldn't get the band to latch properly.
The bracelet is rechargeable, and I found that it needs to be charged every night. On nights that I forgot, the battery light would blink when I tried to wear it. I was, however, able to plug it in for an hour and get enough charge to track my sleep. I quickly got into the habit of unplugging my phone in the morning and replacing it with my Ava bracelet to ensure a full charge each night.
This was one of my favorite tracking methods because once I got the charge down, it required minimal effort on my part. I didn’t have to remember to take a basal thermometer reading or pee in a cup as soon as I woke up. The Ava bracelet did all the work for me, and I could see when I was ovulating and get a better understanding of my body's natural rhythm. It even gave me helpful predictions and fertility tips based on my data.
Number of tests: N/A | Wait time for results: Syncs each morning | FSA/HSA reimbursable: Yes
Our product tester says:
"This is a simple way to track your ovulation and sleep patterns over time, without needing to purchase extra accessories or use other tools to chart your cycles. The app keeps all your data in one place where you can toggle through charts and graphs for a quick overview of your metrics each day."
Our community says:
I've been using the Ava Bracelet for about two weeks. So far I really like it. It predicted my ovulation date and after a few days actually moved it up, I'm assuming because of data it pulled from me when I slept. - kd0202, The Bump forum member
Best budget-friendly wearable ovulation tracker
- Affordable for a wearable device
- Water-resistant
- Real-time BBT and sleep tracking
- Predicts your full fertility window
- Good option for PCOS
- Sleep tracking isn’t as reliable
- Limited features compared to other wearables
- Can’t be adjusted to accommodate swollen fingers
Wearable ovulation trackers tend to be expensive, but there are more budget-friendly options out there. Case in point: The Femometer Cyra Ring Pro, our Best of The Bump winner for best budget-friendly wearable ovulation tracker. This wearable device is primarily focused on fertility tracking, which is reflected in the lower price point—it doesn’t offer the same range of health metrics you get with pricier options like the Ava bracelet, but it works well for people that simply want to monitor ovulation through BBT measurements. You can also log and track your own key metrics in the app, including notes on cervical mucus and LH test results, which is a great way to make sense of your fertility data.
When I tested it, the Cyra Ring Pro's results aligned well with other BBT-based wearables and ovulation tests. After syncing the data, the app displays your daily temperature along with a chart of your cycle and your expected ovulation date. It also tracks sleep metrics, but I didn’t find the sleep tracking as reliable as the other wearables we tried. Overall, it’s a great pick for fertility-focused wearables at an accessible price.
How it works
The Cyra Ring Pro ring uses sensors to track your body's signals, such as skin temperature and movement patterns. The app's algorithm then analyzes the data to determine where you are in your menstrual cycle and predict your fertile window. You wear the ring on your finger while you sleep, and it syncs your temperature data to the app on your phone via Bluetooth when you open it in the morning.
How easy is it to use?
The ring requires charging every few days, but beyond that, it’s incredibly easy to use. The app provides a seamless setup process with clear instructions on how to wear the ring correctly, and the interface is intuitive and user-friendly. The ring is comfortable to wear, although I did run into some tightness as my finger size naturally fluctuated throughout the day. It’s also water-resistant, so you don't need to remove it while washing your hands—a nice convenience for nighttime bathroom trips. And while I did experience occasional issues with the ring not immediately connecting to the app in the morning, it always synced after a few attempts, and syncs faster than another temperature-monitoring device I tested. The app makes accessing and understanding your body's natural cycle easy with helpful insights and tips.
Number of tests: N/A | Wait time for results: Syncs automatically | FSA/HSA reimbursable: Yes
Our product tester says:
“It's very user-friendly and comfortable. The value for money is fantastic, and the app provides useful data and insights. I prefer to use this method over testing urine because it's simpler and faster in terms of your actual daily routine.”
Best budget-friendly ovulation test strips
- Affordable option for daily testing
- Color-coded chart for clear results
- Indicates low, medium and high fertility days
- App lets you gather data for long-term tracking
- Incorrectly uploaded results may give inaccurate app readings
- The app is only available to iOS users
- Alerts you to only 2 fertile days
Modern Fertility Ovulation Test Strips offer a lot of bang for your buck. The strips come with a companion app that tracks your ovulation test results, provides insight into your cycle and fertility and offers calendars for predicting your next period and fertility window. And at less than a dollar a strip, they offer a terrific option for daily testing that rings up a lot cheaper than most, earning them a Best of The Bump winner for best budget-friendly ovulation test strips. Whether you’re testing frequently or are looking to supplement your BBT readings with hormone-based results, consider these your affordable go-to.
I found Modern Fertility to be a good all-purpose option as far as data collection is concerned. The app will offer you a wealth of insight into your cycle, but if you’d prefer to keep things simple, you can just compare the test strip to the color-coded chart on the back of the packaging—a small but useful feature, and not one you find on most test strips!
How it works
These strips measure the LH in your urine to pinpoint your most fertile days. Dip a test strip into an afternoon urine sample for 10 seconds, lay it flat on the included color-coded chart, and wait five minutes for the results. The test line darkens based on how much LH is present in your urine. The darker the line, the higher your fertility level. You can manually track your results or use the free Modern Fertility app to log a picture of each strip, which then generates a digital chart for you.
How easy is it to use?
These strips are straightforward. After testing, the control line should darken first, followed by the test line if it detects an LH surge. A faint test line means your LH concentration is low, while a darker line means you're getting closer to ovulation (high LH concentration). Per the included chart, a light pink line is considered an LH value of 0 to 10 mIU/mL, medium pink is around 25 and peak fertility is the darkest line at 45 to 60 (estimate).
While it’s not required for use, I love having the companion app to look back on my results. After each test, I took a picture of the test strip using the app, and it automatically recorded the LH value based on the color of the test line. You can also manually enter results if you wish. It's worth mentioning that dim room lighting can affect how the app interprets the picture. I set up a space with consistent natural light for taking photos to ensure accuracy.
Number of tests: 20 | Wait time for results: 5 minutes | FSA/HSA reimbursable: Yes
Our product tester says:
“I would absolutely recommend this test to anyone! The low cost, simplicity and accuracy make it a top choice."
Our community says:
I like that these pair with the app and are easy to use [but] I wish the results were easier to read with the eye. - Anna, mom-to-be and The Bump survey respondent
Ovulation Tests Comparison Chart
| Best ovulation test for basic ovulation insights | Best ovulation test for detailed fertility insights | Best wearable ovulation tracker | Best budget-friendly wearable ovulation tracker | Best budget-friendly ovulation test strips | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Overall Best ![]() Clearblue Advanced Digital Ovulation Test | ![]() Inito Fertility Monitor | ![]() Ava Bracelet | ![]() Femometer Cyra Ring Pro | ![]() Modern Fertility Ovulation Test Strips | ||
| Price | $$ | $$$ | $$$ | $$ | $ | |
| Detects | Hormones | Hormones | Temperature | Temperature | Hormones | |
| Type | Digital | Monitor | Wearable | Wearable | Strips | |
| Fertile days shown | 4 | 6 | 6 | N/A | 2 | |
| FSA/HSA eligible | ||||||
| Buy NowRead Full Review | Buy NowRead Full Review | Buy NowRead Full Review | Buy NowRead Full Review | Buy NowRead Full Review |
*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.
If you’re trying to figure out when to have sex to potentially conceive, an ovulation test kit can help. How? Before we explain, let’s take a virtual trip back to middle school and recap sex-ed class, shall we? Ovulation is the once-a-month release of an egg from your ovary; it travels down the fallopian tube and is available for fertilization. According to the American Pregnancy Association, the average cycle is between 28 and 32 days (though a normal cycle can be anywhere from 24 to 38 days). Ovulation typically occurs between days 11 and day 21 of a woman’s cycle (counting from the first day of her last period).
You only ovulate for one day out of the month, but research shows there’s actually a six-day window when pregnancy is possible: the five days leading up to ovulation, and the day of. That’s because sperm can live in your body for up to five days, waiting and ready to fertilize an egg once it releases on ovulation day.
So back to the question: What is an ovulation test? Simply put, it’s an at-home test that looks for biomarkers—typically, specific hormones, but in some cases another marker like BBT—to determine when you are about to ovulate, so you can identify your peak fertility window each month and strategically time your baby-making sex.
Ovulation predictor kits come in several different types:
- Strip tests and digital kits. These operate much like a pregnancy test, analyzing your urine for certain hormones that indicate ovulation.
- Wearables. Ovulation can also be identified by a slight increase in body temperature. Wearable thermometers track your BBT across cycles to give you an idea when your fertile days are going to happen.
- Saliva tests. This is a relatively new type of test that looks at the patterns of dried saliva under a microscope to predict when ovulation is approaching. (Some hormones that increase during ovulation can cause this pattern to change.) I tested a saliva-based ovulation kit for this article, but it didn’t make the cut—I found that the saliva test was not as accurate, relied heavily on the user’s own interpretation of the results and was less convenient than other options.
Regardless of whether you go low-budget or tech-savvy, each option serves the same purpose: to help you “determine the exact day of ovulation,” states Williams.
Hormone-based ovulation predictor kits generally look for LH in your urine. According to Jenna Turocy, MD, an ob-gyn and reproductive endocrinology and infertility expert at Columbia University Fertility Center, “Ovulation tests detect the surge in LH that occurs 24 to 48 hours before ovulation. By identifying the most fertile days in a woman’s menstrual cycle, couples can time intercourse to increase the chances of conception.” LH is produced in the pituitary gland and surges each month just before ovulation, explains Williams. “These tests are usually negative until the LH surge, and positive once ovulation occurs the very next day,” he says. So just because you get a negative result today doesn’t mean it won’t be positive tomorrow; you may need to take tests for a few consecutive days as you think you’re approaching ovulation.
While LH is more commonly tested, some ovulation tests measure additional key fertility hormones, like E3G, PdG and FSH. Each of these hormones rises and falls at different times in your cycle and can provide additional insight into your fertility levels, ovulation and overall reproductive health. Multi-hormone tests may benefit women with irregular cycles or those who are trying to conceive while dealing with certain medical conditions like PCOS.
“Wearable ovulation trackers, such as bracelets or rings, work by continuously monitoring physiological changes associated with ovulation,” says Turocy. “Unlike traditional at-home ovulation tests, which measure hormone levels in urine, wearables track indirect biomarkers, including skin temperature, which rises slightly after ovulation; heart rate variability; respiration rate; sleep patterns and electrodermal activity (sweat gland activity).” Studies suggest that continuous monitoring of wrist temperature is more accurate for detecting ovulation than daily BBT measurements.
Turocy also notes that while some of these physiological markers have been linked to ovulation, less evidence supports their accuracy compared to traditional hormone-based methods like urine LH monitoring. “Wearables may provide valuable insights into cycle trends over time, but they may not be as precise for pinpointing ovulation in real-time,” notes Turocy.
Despite this limitation, wearables are still popular for tracking menstrual cycles and can provide helpful information about your overall reproductive health. One of the primary benefits of using wearables for cycle tracking is that it allows you to easily monitor your cycle without daily urine or blood tests. Wearables can serve as a complementary tool to help you better understand your body for when the time comes to conceive. Many also pair with a device or app to offer features such as period prediction, ovulation prediction and fertility window alerts. These features can be helpful for those trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy without the use of hormonal birth control. However, it’s important to note that wearables should not be relied on as a sole method of birth control.
When choosing an ovulation kit, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Method of detection. There are a few methods that help predict the LH surge, including urine-based tests and saliva tests. However, there are some women for whom LH tests aren’t effective—for instance, people with underlying conditions like PCOS. “Women with PCOS may have higher baseline levels of LH, making it challenging to detect the surge that precedes ovulation. This elevated baseline can result in false positives or unclear results,” says Turocy. In those cases, ovulation tests that track BBT may be more effective.
- Accuracy. Most ovulation kits claim to be at least 98 percent accurate at detecting LH levels when used correctly. Make sure your ovulation predictor kit meets this standard and is easy to use to eliminate inaccurate readings. Remember, ovulation predictor kits won’t work for everyone, so consult your doctor to find the right option for your fertility journey.
- Ease of use. You’ll want to choose an ovulation test that provides clear instructions and is easy to use. Using one that provides simple and straightforward steps is important, since the accuracy of your results will rely on how well the instructions were followed.
- Cost. Consider the cost of the ovulation kit, as prices can vary significantly. “Basic test strips are more affordable but require interpretation of lines,” Turocy explains. “Digital trackers provide clear results, but typically cost more.” Determine a budget and select a kit that fits your needs within your price range while still offering accuracy, easy use and reliability.
- Additional features. Many ovulation kits offer additional features. Things such as tracking apps, fertility monitors or multiple testing sticks can be really helpful additions during your pregnancy journey. You may want to consider some of these options to assist with your overall fertility tracking goals.
While ovulation tests are a helpful tool, Turocy stresses that they’re not foolproof, and other factors such as overall health, lifestyle and a male partner’s fertility should be taken into account. “If a couple is unable to conceive after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse, I recommend reaching out to a fertility specialist. A fertility specialist can conduct a thorough evaluation, offer personalized advice and recommend appropriate interventions to enhance the chances of conception,” explains Turocy.
Figuring out when to take an ovulation test can be tricky—mostly because not all women ovulate on a predictable 28-day calendar. To that end, having a basic idea of your cycle can help narrow it down. Tracking your menstrual cycle can give you a leg up, as can monitoring for changes in cervical mucus or taking your basal temperature.
“Ovulation tests are usually performed daily, within four to five days of ovulation. For women with a 28-day cycle, starting to test on day 10 of the cycle can predict ovulation over the next five to six days. For women with more variable cycle lengths, beginning ovulation testing on day eight of the menstrual cycle might be helpful,” says Williams. He acknowledges that if a woman’s cycle length is very long (35+ days), it becomes increasingly challenging to understand when ovulation is occurring and determine the best day to begin testing.
Once you do start testing, you’ll want to use “early morning urine,” says Robert Kiltz, MD, an ob-gyn, reproductive endocrinologist and the founder of CNY Fertility in Syracuse, New York. This helps to ensure the highest concentration of detectable LH in your urine.
However, some ovulation tests recommend afternoon urine because LH levels peak in the morning and may not show up until later in the day. Carefully read the instructions for your specific ovulation test to ensure you’re collecting your sample at the right time of day. Most app-based tests remind you when to test and which tests (if multiple tests are included) to use each day.
A positive result means you’re experiencing a surge in LH and will be ovulating in the next 12 to 36 hours. To optimize your chances of conception, you‘ll want to have sex asap. “Intercourse should occur on the day of the positive ovulation test,” says Williams. Having sex on the exact day of ovulation actually has a slightly lower rate of success (since you’re not making use of the days sperm could lie in wait as you approach ovulation), but as Williams notes, some ovulation predictor tests only provide 24 hours notice before ovulation, so you do the best you can!
The next step is the hardest: waiting to see if your efforts paid off. “Checking a home pregnancy test 12 to 14 days after ovulation should return a positive result if pregnancy has occurred,” says Williams. And if you get a negative? Well, you can start the whole process over again in about two weeks. Of course, if you have any concerns, are unable to detect a surge throughout your cycle or are experiencing trouble conceiving, consult your doctor for the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are ovulation tests?
According to Kiltz, ovulation tests are typically 95 to 99 percent accurate at detecting LH in the urine. While that’s encouraging, they’re not the best option for every woman: “The biggest issue is that many people don’t ovulate…The other part is that so many women with PCOS happen to have higher LH levels, so they may get a false positive, thinking they’re ovulating but in fact they’re not,” explains Williams. And while ovulation tests may help you gain a clearer picture of your cycle, Turocy advises people with irregular cycles or underlying health conditions like PCOS to consult a healthcare professional specializing in fertility early on.
Certain fertility-enhancing medications can also alter the results of an ovulation predictor kit. Furthermore, some “women ovulate regularly with a normal LH surge, but the LH concentration in the urine does not get detected,” continues Williams, essentially rendering these ovulation kits useless. With that said, ovulation tests can be a helpful tool when you’re trying to conceive. Speak with your doctor to determine the best ovulation test for you.
Can an ovulation test detect pregnancy?
Ovulation tests are not designed to detect pregnancy. However, pregnancy tests, which detect the presence of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in a woman’s urine or blood, are reliable for confirming pregnancy and can come in a pack alongside ovulation tests. In some cases, an ovulation test may show a false positive if hCG is present in the urine because the molecular structures of luteinizing hormone (LH)—the hormone most commonly detected by ovulation tests—and hCG are very similar. In no way should an ovulation test be used as a substitute for a pregnancy test.
About the writer
Lindsay Modglin is a freelance writer and editor and mom of three who covers health and wellness for top national publications. She writes about everything from fertility and pregnancy to parenting and managing chronic conditions, drawing from her background as a nurse and advocate. Thanks to her own experience trying to conceive, she knows a thing or two about ovulation tests. Her work has appeared across outlets like Forbes, Healthline, Verywell Health, Parents, Insider, Everyday Health, Yahoo, Shape and more. When she’s not playing with words, you can find her traveling and spending time with her husband and three kids.
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Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
Plus, more from The Bump:
Shaun Williams, MD, is a partner and reproductive endocrinologist at Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut. He received his medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.
Jenna Turocy, MD, earned her medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine and went on to complete her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She then completed her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Columbia University. Turocy is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
Robert Kiltz, MD, is an ob-gyn, reproductive endocrinologist and the founder and director of CNY Fertility in Syracuse, New York. He received his medical degree at the University of California, Davis.
The Bump January 2024 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of 360 new parents from among The Bump community, and asked for feedback and insight on ovulation tests they’d used.
The Bump May 2023 Survey. Editors conducted a survey of 299 new parents from among The Bump community, and asked for feedback and insight on ovulation tests they’d used.
American Pregnancy Association, What is Ovulation?
National Library of Medicine, Detection of ovulation, a review of currently available methods, May 2017
JMIR, The Accuracy of Wrist Skin Temperature in Detecting Ovulation Compared to Basal Body Temperature: Prospective Comparative Diagnostic Accuracy Study, June 2021
National Library of Medicine, Ovarian Reserve Testing, December 2022
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