One of the most effective ways to detect ovulation is through basal temperature. This technique helps identify ovulation through tracking body temperature during at least six continuous hours of rest. The temperature should be taken without any sudden movement by the woman. Once we have a pattern of body temperature activity, we can detect that woman's ovulation pattern. Normally, the temperature drops one or two days before ovulation occurs due to high levels of estrogen and LH.

Another way to detect the fertile period is the Ovatel tool. With it, you can recognize ovulation by the crystallization of saliva that dries on the slide. With a microscope, it is easy to see the fern-like patterns formed by the woman's saliva. The more crystal leaves the fern has, the more fertile the woman is. These crystallized patterns are formed by enzymes produced by the woman's body.

The Billings method is the best-known approach and most recommended by doctors for recognizing the fertile period. With it, it is possible to distinguish mucus from all the phases of the cycle and then have intercourse on days when the mucus is more elastic or the woman feels wetter. High moisture means ovulation is certain.

The swab test is very similar to the Billings method, with the difference that it can be done only at the end of the cycle to check if menstruation is coming. When the swab is inserted, it will show if there is blood inside the vagina or not, or if there is white progesterone mucus. During the fertile period, it is useful to detect estrogen mucus that is more rigid and does not come out of the vagina as easily as the thinner, more elastic mucus.

Together with the Billings method, you can use the homemade cervix touch. This allows the woman to check the opening of the cervix and then, if appropriate, just have intercourse to conceive. This touch also helps detect the consistency of the cervix—if it is soft, the woman tends to be fertile! Open cervix and soft texture? Time to get romantic!

The pharmacy ovulation test complements all these detection methods. The tests sold in Brazil come with about five strips and can be used throughout the entire fertile period. If the test does not turn positive during the days it was done, the woman should keep testing even if she needs another kit of five. However, in the vast majority of cases, the test does catch the LH peak without any problems. These isolated episodes occur due to cycles with late ovulation.

Photos: Selbe, Michelle Dyer