What is an ovulation test?
An ovulation test is done by analyzing the levels of luteinizing hormone in urine with a test strip. These tests are also known as LH tests or OPKs (Ovulation Prediction Kits).
Click the following link to read more: Why should I take ovulation tests?
You can buy the ovulation test strips in our webshop or at your local pharmacy.
When to take an ovulation test
An increase in LH is usually found within 24-48 hours before ovulation, so it’s best to test in the days before your expected ovulation.
The Natural Cycles app lets you know when the best time to test is by showing an ovulation test symbol (see below) in the predictions on the days you should take an ovulation test. You can see the predictions in the Calendar view. These suggestions are optimized so that you take as few tests as possible without missing your peak. You can, however, always test more (or less) than what’s suggested.
If you’re not getting any ovulation test recommendations, please visit this article.
How to take strip-style ovulation tests
As a first step, please remember to always check the manufacturer's instructions on how to take your ovulation tests. Below are general instructions that most strip-style tests tend to follow.
1. Collect a urine sample in a clean, dry plastic or glass container.
2. Remove the test strip from the sealed pouch.
3. Immerse the strip into the urine with the arrow pointing towards the urine. Take the strip out after three seconds and lay the strip flat on a clean, dry, non-absorbent surface (such as a closed toilet lid).
IMPORTANT: Do not allow the urine level to exceed the MAX (marker line); otherwise, the test will not perform correctly.
4. Read the results immediately once five minutes have passed. Do not wait to read the results after longer than five minutes.
You can take ovulation tests as many times a day as you wish. If you see a second colored band, but it's not strong enough to be considered positive, it can be a good indication to test a few hours later.
To ensure that you do not miss your LH peak, it is recommended that you limit your fluid intake for a few hours before testing (to prevent the LH from being diluted).
The picture above shows a negative ovulation test result (strip-style).
How to take Clearblue® & Natural Cycles° Digital Ovulation Tests
Below, you will find instructions for Clearblue® & Natural Cycles° Birth Control Kit Digital Ovulation Test Refill Pack (available for US users only). If you use Clearblue® Digital Ovulation Tests or any other kinds of tests, please refer to the instructions included in your kit.
Before testing
- Take the test stick out of the foil and remove the cap.
- Insert the test stick into the holder until it clicks into place, making sure to line up the arrows.
Get ready to test
- Before doing the test, wait for the “test ready” symbol to appear.
- Place the absorbent tip pointing downwards in your urine stream for 5-7 seconds, or collect a urine sample in a clean, dry container and dip the sampler in the urine for 15 seconds.
- Replace the cap and lay the test flat. Do not eject the test stick.
- After 20-40 seconds, the “test ready” symbol will flash.
- Within 3 minutes, the display will show your result.
Results are displayed for 8 minutes. If you miss your result, eject the test stick, and it will appear for another 2 minutes.
Throw the test stick away with normal household waste. When you are ready to test again, follow the instructions using the holder and a new test stick.
Read on to understand how to read the results, how each result affects ovulation detection, and why you should take ovulation tests.