Many myPCOSteam members use ovulation tracking methods when trying to conceive - often referred to on the site by the acronym TTC. One of the most popular methods among members is ovulation urine testing strips, also called ovulation predictor kits (OPKs). Members also use basal body temperature (BBT) thermometers and wearable devices that track BBT. Tracking ovulation helps some women on myPCOSteam feel in greater control of their futures, while others find testing can leave them feeling discouraged.

Ovulation predictor kits may not be accurate for every woman with PCOS. OPKs test urine for a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which increases as a woman approaches ovulation. Many women with PCOS have high levels of LH, which could falsely indicate ovulation. Talk to your doctor about recommended fertility tracking methods.

Though ovulation testing strips may not work for every woman with PCOS, many myPCOSteam members have been able to accurately monitor their fertility with OPKs. In response to a member wondering if she can use OPKs, another wrote, “I have been using them and it tells me negative when I’m not [ovulating] and when I am at my peak. In addition to the other systems of ovulation tracking, it seems to be working for me.”

Members rejoice when they have a positive ovulation test. “I literally just got my first positive ovulation test in five years!!! Wish me luck on my baby making!! 😁❤,” one member celebrated. Another shared a photo of her positive test with the caption, “My first positive ovulation test ever!!!!!!!”

On the opposite end of the spectrum, negative ovulation tests can leave myPCOSteam members feeling depressed and discouraged. “I’ve been taking an ovulating test every day and not once have I ovulated,” a member hoping to conceive wrote. “I’m really feeling low today.”

Some myPCOSteam members decide to stop using OPKs because of the emotional toll. “Almost out of ovulation tests which makes me happy weirdly. I’m tired of all the extras not getting me anywhere,” one member wrote. Another member echoed her sentiments, “I’m super over taking meds and OPKs and checking cervical mucus and everything else we have to do. If I didn’t pay for the OPKs, I would not be using them anymore. Still plan on not buying more once they run out. For now I am focusing on my health and my marriage.”

On myPCOSteam, the social network and online support group for those living with PCOS, members talk about a range of personal experiences and struggles. Ovulation tracking is one of the most discussed topics.

Here are some conversations about ovulation tracking:
 

• “I read online that ovulation tests don’t work if you have PCOS.” 

• “I was having some abdominal pain last night so I took an ovulation test and it was positive. Yay!”  

• “There are no words in the human language that could describe how excited I am.” 

Here are some question-and-answer threads about ovulation tracking:

• Ovulation on Clomid taken cd2 to cd6 

• What are the best ovulation sticks I can get that aren’t expensive? 

• Has anyone used Clear Blue OPK with several "high" fertility days? How long until "peak?" 

Have you used ovulation predictor kits or other methods to track ovulation? Share your experiences in the comments below or on myPCOSteam.