Ovulation Calculator
Understanding your menstrual cycle is the first step towards conception. This free ovulation calculator helps you identify your most fertile days so you can time intercourse for the best chance of getting pregnant.
Enter the first day of your last period and your average cycle length to see your estimated ovulation date and fertile window. Your fertile window typically spans about 6 days — the 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself.
Understanding Ovulation
Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from one of your ovaries and travels down the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilised by sperm. This usually happens about 14 days before your next period, though the exact timing varies between women and even between cycles.
The egg survives for only 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, but sperm can live in the reproductive tract for up to 5 days. This means the best time to have intercourse is in the days leading up to and including ovulation day.
Signs of Ovulation
Learning to recognise the signs of ovulation can help you pinpoint your most fertile days:
- Cervical mucus changes: Around ovulation, cervical mucus becomes clear, stretchy, and slippery, similar to raw egg white. This type of mucus helps sperm travel to the egg.
- Basal body temperature (BBT) rise: After ovulation, your resting body temperature rises by about 0.2–0.5°C. Tracking your temperature daily can help confirm when ovulation has occurred.
- Mild pelvic pain: Some women feel a twinge or mild cramping on one side of the lower abdomen. This is called mittelschmerz (middle pain).
- Increased libido: Many women notice a natural increase in desire around ovulation.
- Breast tenderness: Hormonal changes around ovulation can cause slight breast sensitivity.
Best Timing for Conception
For the best chance of conceiving, aim to have intercourse every 1 to 2 days during your fertile window. The most fertile days are the 2 to 3 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself.
If you have a regular 28-day cycle, ovulation typically occurs around day 14. For longer or shorter cycles, ovulation usually happens about 14 days before your next expected period. Our calculator adjusts for your specific cycle length.
Do not worry about timing intercourse to the exact hour. Sperm can survive for several days, so having regular intercourse throughout your fertile window gives you the best chance without unnecessary stress.
When to Seek Help
If you have been trying to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months if you are over 35) without success, consider speaking to your doctor about fertility testing. In Nigeria, your gynaecologist can arrange basic investigations for both partners to identify any underlying issues.
Got a Positive Test?
Congratulations! If you have just found out you are pregnant, use our free due date calculator to find out when your baby is due and get your personalised antenatal care schedule.
Calculate Your Due Date