Ovulation Detection Systems

Ovulation Detection Systems

Once you have honed in on your fertile window and are ready to refine timing further, ovulation detection systems and predictor kits can help identify your highest fertility days and your approximate 24 hour window of opportunity. These systems track hormone metabolites through urine and may include LH strips, PdG strips, or newer systems.

LH Strips

Arguably the most common and widely known system to predict ovulation includes luteinizing hormone (LH) strips. These can be purchased over the counter at most pharmacies. Surges in this hormone suggest that ovulation is approaching within the next 12-36 hours, which can help you time intercourse.

PdG Strips

These strips came after LH testing and assess urinary pregnanediol 3 glucuronide (PdG), a marker of progesterone production. In contrast to predicting or anticipating ovulation, this type of test helps confirm if ovulation has occurred and whether progesterone rose appropriately in the days afterward.

Both LH and PdG testing are helpful, especially given that LH can surge without inducing ovulation. This is often the case in those living with Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovary Syndrome (PMOS) (formerly known as Poly-Cystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)), which can become challenging to interpret for those looking to conceive. In that context, LH is best thought of as a timing tool, and PdG as a confirmation tool.

Other Systems

Newer systems have come to market that integrate LH, PdG, as well as other ovulatory hormone metabolites such as FSH and estradiol. Some of these systems are Food and Drug Administration registered for at home use, which offers an easy to use processing system and app that can help display hormone patterns across the cycle.

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References:

• Bouchard TP, Fehring RJ, Schneider M. Pilot Evaluation of a New Urine Progesterone Test to Confirm Ovulation in Women Using a Fertility Monitor. Front Public Health. 2019;7:184. Published 2019 Jul 2. doi:10.3389/fpubh.2019.00184

• Wegrzynowicz AK, Eyvazzadeh A, Beckley A. Current Ovulation and Luteal Phase Tracking Methods and Technologies for Fertility and Family Planning: A Review. Semin Reprod Med. 2024;42(2):100-111. doi:10.1055/s-0044-1791190