Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: I haven't been using contraception for eight months, and my menstrual cycle is irregular, so I haven't been able to conceive. How can I get pregnant as soon as possible? My husband and I have both been tested and there are no issues. How can I know if I am ovulating normally?Doctor's answer:
Hello: Based on your situation, it is recommended to conduct an ovulation test. Common methods for checking ovulation include:1. Basal body temperature measurement: Starting from the first day of your menstrual period, measure your temperature under the tongue with a thermometer for 5 minutes immediately after waking up and before any physical activity, and record it every day. Continue this until the next menstrual period. Normally, ovulation occurs around day 14 of the menstrual cycle. After ovulation, the body temperature rises by 0.3–0.5°C and remains elevated for about 12 days. If the temperature does not rise, rises slowly, lasts for a short duration, or does not rise by 0.3°C, it indicates no ovulation or insufficient luteal function.
2. Endometrial biopsy: A minor surgical procedure is performed either before menstruation or within 12 hours of its onset to take a sample of the endometrium for examination. If there are secretory changes, it indicates ovulation. If there are proliferative changes, it suggests no ovulation. Additionally, it can check for other conditions such as endometrial tuberculosis.
3. Hormonal testing: Around one week before the menstrual period (post-ovulation), blood is drawn to test progesterone levels. An increase in progesterone indicates ovulation.