How does a home ovulation test work?
When a woman is about to ovulate, her body releases a large amount of a hormone called L.H. (Luteinising Hormone). L.H. is always present in your urine but the levels increase (surge) in the middle of your cycle, causing you to release an egg from the ovary, this process is called ovulation. If the L.H. surge is present, ovulation is likely to occur in the next 24 to 48 hours.
These ovulation tests detect the L.H. surge by measuring the amount of L.H. in urine.
How accurate is this test?
This test is greater than 99% accurate in laboratory testing.
Once I receive a positive result, when is the best time to have intercourse?
Ovulation usually follows the start of the L.H. surge within 24-48 hours. This is the time when you are at your most fertile, therefore you should have intercourse during this time.
What happens if after using 5 tests I have still not detected my L.H. surge?
Most women with regular cycles will detect their L.H. Surge in 5 days or under and so 5 tests are sufficient, however, if you have irregular cycles you may need to test for longer and may require additional ovulation tests to detect your L.H. Surge
I have recently come off the contraceptive pill will this affect my result?
As the pill disrupts your natural hormone balance it may take a few months for your periods to return to normal. You may want to wait until you have had 2 normal periods before starting to use this ovulation test. Please be aware that pregnancy and breast feeding could affect the results of this test.
Will alcohol or other common medications affect the results of this test?
No, but you should consult your doctor if you are taking any hormonal treatments.