Ovulation test strips

Question

So this month I am going to use ovulation test strips to see if I am indeed still ovulating.
My cycles have been anything from 27 to 40 days in the last six months, with the 40 days being my last cycle but averaging around 32/34 days. I have never used the test strips before and the instructions given are for those with regular cycles. What day would be the best for me to start using them?

Tara220 · Accepted Answer

For the first month I started using the test strips I started a week after my period ended and tested every day until I got the possitive, then a day or so after until it was negative again.  That let me know what CD I would get the positive on, and would ovulate soon. Then for the next month I started a few days before that CD and only had to test for about a week. Typically I dont ovulate the exact same CD each month so giving myself a few days to a week of testing makes sure I catch it. Also once you start to see around which CD you ovulate, you tend to start noticing changes in your body when youre getting close. Now I can feel it coming, test for a day or two and get the possitive. Unfortunately there isnt much instruction to it since every woman is different. Good luck!

Tara220 · Answer

Good to hear! Good luck! SSBD

mum2beagain · Answer

Just an update, I started testing on day 10, got v faint positives on days 12 and 13 and a very dark line today day 14, I suspect I will ovulate in the next 24 to 48 hours as I always used to ovulate on day 16. Better get busy!!

mum2beagain · Answer

I always used to have 32 day cycles and ovulated on the 16th day, every time, the signs were clear. The last few months my cycles have been all over the place hence my testing. Thanks for the advice, I'll probably start testing around CD12 then.

renny320 · Answer

To be on the safe side, you should probably use your shortest cycle to factor when to start testing. So whatever day it says you should start for a 27 day cycle, start then. I don't know what brand you use, but Clear Blue Easy digital has a tool on their website that helps you calculate the test start date. http://www.clearblueeasy.com/start-testing-with-clearblue-easy-ovulation-tests.php 

Like Tara220 said, once you have used the tests and get an idea of when you normally ovulate, you can adjust when you start testing. I know I used a lot more test strips the first month I tested than I do now. Good luck.