LAB TEST
Ovulation home test
An ovulation home test is used by women to help determine the time in the menstrual cycle when getting pregnant is most likely. The test detects a rise in luteinizing hormone (LH) in the urine. A rise in this hormone signals the ovary to release the egg. This at-home test is often used by women to help predict when an egg release is likely. This is when pregnancy is most likely to occur. These kits can be bought at most drug stores. LH urine tests are not the same as at home fertility monitors. Fertility monitors are digital handheld devices. They predict ovulation based on electrolyte levels in saliva, LH levels in urine, or your basal body temperature. These devices can store ovulation information for several menstrual cycles.
How the Test is Performed
Ovulation prediction test kits most often come with five to seven sticks. You may need to test for several days to detect a surge in LH. The specific time of month that you start testing depends on the length of your menstrual cycle. For example, if your normal cycle is 28 days, you'll need to begin testing on day 11…
How to Prepare for the Test
DO NOT drink large amounts of fluids before using the test. Drugs that can decrease LH levels include estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone. Estrogens and progesterone may be found in birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy. The drug clomiphene citrate (Clomid) can increase LH levels. This drug is used…
How the Test will Feel
The test involves normal urination. There is no pain or discomfort.
Why the Test is Performed
This test is most often done to determine when a woman will ovulate to assist her in getting pregnant. For women with a 28-day menstrual cycle, this release normally occurs between days 11 and 14. If you have an irregular menstrual cycle, the kit can help you tell when you are ovulating. The ovulation home test may…
Normal Results
A positive result indicates an "LH surge." This is a sign that ovulation may soon occur.
Risks
Rarely, false positive results can occur. This means the test kit may falsely predict ovulation.
Considerations
Talk to your provider if you are unable to detect a surge or do not become pregnant after using the kit for several months. You may need to see an infertility specialist.
References
Jeelani R, Bluth MH. Reproductive function and pregnancy. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods . 24th ed.: Elsevier; 2022:chap 26. Nerenz RD, Boh B. Reproductive endocrinology and related disorders. In: Rifai N, Chiu RWK, Young I, Burnham Carey-Ann D,…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 01/04/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.