Ovulation is a must to conceive naturally. While there are several things required for successful conception, ovulation is one of the most vital parts of achieving pregnancy. Understanding your menstrual cycle is one of the most essentialaspectsof increasing your chance of fertility naturally. You can consult the best IVF doctor in Siliguri City.
The concept might seem confusing or challenging at first glance, but is not. In this blog, we'll decode your menstrual cycle step-by-step, which will help you identify your fertile window for natural conception.
Understanding the Menstrual Cycle: An Overview is Here
A standard menstrual cycle lasts between 26-32 days; however, it's not the same for every woman. If you have no such issues with menstrual cycles, you can plot your menstrual cycle on a calendar to determine when you are most fertile. It is known as a calendar-based strategy.
Let’s break down the cycle into four main phases.
So, the first day of your period marks the beginning of the menstrual period.
Follicular Phase (Days 1-14)
This usually lasts till ovulation and starts on the first day of the menstruation. During the follicular phase, your body begins to prepare for the next potential pregnancy. And it’s the phase when the uterine lining sheds.
Also, in this phase when the pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Here, FSH prompts the ovaries to create follicles. Each follicle contains an egg, out of which usually only one egg matures fully. To prepare for implantation, the uterine lining thickens when oestrogen levels go higher.
Ovulation Phase (Around Day 14)
We must have heard that ovulation is vital to conception. The phase generally occurs around day 14 of a 28-day of the menstrual cycle, but it can vary. The mature egg leaves the ovary during ovulation and passes into the fallopian tube, where sperm may fertilize it.
Now, this is your fertile window.This is the phase or time when you have the highest chance of getting pregnant. Having sex in the days preceding ovulation can improve your chances of pregnancy because sperm can remain in the female reproductive system for up to five days. For ovulation disturbances, consult the best IVF doctor in Siliguri, North Bengal.
Luteal Phase (Days 15-28)
After ovulation, starts the luteal phase. The corpus luteum, which generates progesterone, develops from the burst follicle. This hormone helps maintain your uterine lining.
Thus, providing a supportive environment for a fertilized egg to implant. If the egg is not fertilized, progesterone levels decline, and the uterine lining is shedin your upcoming menstrual cycle.
Having unprotected sex during the days of ovulation can help sperm survive for five days inside the female reproductive canal, so timing is vital.
Your lifestyle is vital as well, ranging from eating a well-balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains to regular moderate exercise promotes overall good health. Therefore, helping regulate reproductive cycles.
Especially for couples wanting to conceive, internal stress may take place. Hence, managing stress during this time is essential and can be done through practicing meditation, deep breathing, and yoga.
Still, if you are confused and want expert advice, feel free to reach out. Visit the most trusted gynecologist or IVF specialist in Siliguri.
