[Shenicka]

I am Trying to conceive and I have irregular periods.. My last period was May 9th and I have been using a ovulation predictor kit and have not yet got a positive result. My period before that was March 21st but they are sometimes spread out further than that. Would I go by my period on march 29th to the one on may 9th to count my cycle days?

[DoulaLC]

With irregular periods, you are likely to find using OPKs can be frustrating, but not impossible. It will get costly as you will be testing more frequently.


A rough guide to start with would be to determine what your shortest cycle normally is and your longest cycle. You would then subtract 18 days from your shortest cycle and 11 days from your longest. The results gives you a starting range of the days in your cycle when you might be the most fertile. A cycle starts with the first day of your period and ends the day before the next period begins.

Just as not everyone ovulates on day 14 of a cycle, not everyone will fall within the time frame you come up with when you have irregular cycles. It can be wise to start your testing a few days before and go through a few days after. As you will see, you will be testing a good many days throughout each month.

It is important to keep in mind as well that ovulation tests don't mean you are ovulating but that your body is preparing to ovulate. With irregular cycles, there is the possibility that you are not ovulating every cycle. Further testing from your doctor would be in order.

How long have you been trying to conceive? While testing often isn't considered until a couple has been actively trying for at least a year (after 6 months if the woman is in her mid-30's), with irregular cycles I would start this process sooner regardless of age.

[Shenicka]

I have been trying for about 6mths and this is my first time buying a OPK and yes it is becoming frustrating. Thank you for your help and I will Try doing what u said...