Ovulation signs and symptoms: When am I most fertile?

Ovulation signs and symptoms are often subtle. However, the most obvious and reliable predictor of ovulation is an increase in cervical mucus, which results in a clear discharge that has the appearance of raw egg whites. This increase in cervical mucus occurs right before ovulation.

At the time of ovulation, some women may also experience:

• Mild abdominal cramps (mittelschmerz)
• Breast tenderness
• Bloating
• Increased sex drive

There are other signs and symptoms of ovulation, but these are less obvious, including:

• Changes in basal body temperature. Ovulation may cause a slight increase in temperature. You will be most fertile during the two to three days before your temperature rises.
• Hormone surge. Over-the-counter ovulation kits test your urine for a surge in hormones that occurs before ovulation.
• Changes in the position and firmness of the cervix. An increase in estrogen right before ovulation causes your cervix to rise and soften.