The test is done by analyzing the levels of luteinizing hormone in the urine with a test strip. You can buy the LH test strips in our shop or in your local pharmacy. The tests are commonly known as "ovulation tests" or OPKs (ovulation prediction kits).
LH is always present in the body, that is why you can often see a light second band on the strip. But it's only when both bands are equally strong that the test is considered positive (Natural Cycles branded LH tests - please check the manufacturer's information if using another brand of LH tests). LH tests are optional, and not a requirement for the algorithm.
An increased LH is usually found within 24-48h before ovulation. Natural Cycles app lets you know by indicating "LH" in the prognosis on the days you should take an LH test, and you see these in the Month- and Today view. These indications are optimized so that you have to take as few tests as possible without missing your peak. You can of course always take as many tests as you want anyway. Just enter the test results in the app as usual.
*Always follow the directions from the manufacturer of your LH tests
1. The test strip and urine have to be at room temperature prior to testing.
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 3 seconds and lay the strip flat on a clean, dry, non-absorbent surface. ( such as the mouth of the urine container)
IMPORTANT: Do not allow the urine level to exceed the MAX (marker line) otherwise the test will not perform correctly.
4. Read results in five minutes. Do not read results after more than 5 minutes.
You can repeat this procedure as many times a day as you wish to. Especially if you see a second colored band, but it's not strong enough to be considered positive it can be a good idea to test a few hours later.
Negative Natural Cycles LH-test:
Positive Natural Cycles LH-test: