Your Body's Ovulation Signals
Your body produces several detectable signs around ovulation. Learning to recognize these can help you identify your most fertile days without relying solely on calendar calculations.
The Most Reliable Signs
1. Cervical Mucus Changes
This is often the most reliable natural sign of approaching ovulation. As estrogen rises in the days before ovulation, cervical mucus transitions through several stages: dry or sticky after your period, then creamy, then wet and slippery. The most fertile mucus resembles raw egg whites—clear, stretchy, and slippery. This "egg white cervical mucus" (EWCM) helps sperm survive and travel efficiently.
2. LH Surge (Detected by OPKs)
A surge in luteinizing hormone triggers ovulation 24–36 hours later. Ovulation predictor kits detect this surge in your urine, giving you a clear heads-up that ovulation is approaching.
Recommended: OPK Test Strips
Simple, affordable LH test strips are just as accurate as expensive digital tests. We recommend buying in bulk so you can test daily during your expected fertile window.
Browse OPK Strips on Amazon →3. Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Shift
After ovulation, progesterone causes your resting temperature to rise by about 0.5–1.0°F. This rise confirms ovulation occurred but can't predict it in advance. Over several cycles, BBT data helps you identify patterns in your ovulation timing.
Other Possible Signs
Mittelschmerz (ovulation pain): Some women feel a mild twinge or cramping on one side of the lower abdomen around ovulation. Not everyone experiences this, and it's not a reliable timing indicator on its own.
Increased libido: Some research suggests sexual desire may increase around ovulation, though this varies significantly between individuals.
Breast tenderness: Some women notice breast sensitivity after ovulation due to rising progesterone levels.
Cervical position changes: During ovulation, the cervix tends to be higher, softer, and more open. This takes practice to detect and isn't necessary for most people.
Pro Tip: Combine Methods
No single sign is foolproof. The most effective approach combines 2–3 methods: OPKs for prediction, cervical mucus for daily awareness, and BBT for confirmation. Our cycle tracker helps you log all of these in one place.
This guide was last reviewed on January 18, 2026.