How to Track Ovulation Using the Calendar (Rhythm) Method
The calendar method, sometimes called the rhythm method, is the oldest method of contraception, but can also be used to estimate ovulation. Actually, because of the failure rate (up to 25%) when used for contraception, it is much better suited for women who are actually trying to get pregnant. It involves using a chart or calendar to track the days of your menstrual cycle. Then from the length of the longest and shortest cycles you can determine your most fertile period. It is based on the idea that women ovulate 14 days before menstruation begins.
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Instructions
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First, you will need to begin keeping track of your menstrual cycles. The first day of you period (the first day you bleed) is day 1 of your cycle.
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After tracking you cycles for a few months, add up the number of days in each cycle. While the average cycle lasts around 28 days, a typical cycle can range from 21 to 35 days long.
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Now subtract 14 days from the length of your shortest and longest cycle. Example: Let's say your shortest cycle was 24 days and your longest was 29. This gives us 10 (24-14) and 15 (29-14).
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Based on the assumption that you ovulate 14 days before your next menstrual period we will say that you ovulate sometime between cycle day 10 and cycle day 15.
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Since an egg can be fertilized for about 24 hours after it is released and sperm can survive inside a woman for 3-5 days (some studies suggest up to 7 days), you can begin having sex with the intent of conceiving from about cycle day 5 to cycle day 16. Having sex every other day within this time frame should be adequate to achieve pregnancy. Enjoy the ride!
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Tips & Warnings
To maximize your chances of conceiving, use the calendar method along with other symptom based fertility awareness methods such as the Basal Body Temperature and Cervical Mucus Methods.
This method is not very reliable when used for contraception
Resources
- Photo Credit Maxime Perron Caissy
