Hepatitis Foundation International

Home » General Health » Signs Ovulation Is Over – When Does Fertility Window Close?

Signs Ovulation Is Over – When Does Fertility Window Close?


Methodology

Ovulation marks the midpoint of a woman’s menstrual cycle when an egg is released from the ovary to potentially be fertilized. Recognizing the signs that ovulation has passed can be useful for tracking cycles, conception planning, and understanding shifting hormone patterns. While symptoms vary between women, some observable changes and secondary signs provide clues that ovulation is complete.

What Is Ovulation?

Ovulation occurs when a mature egg emerges from its ovarian follicle approximately 14 days before the start of a woman’s next period. The egg is swept into the fallopian tubes where it may be fertilized within 24 hours.

Ovulation

After ovulation, the emptied follicle becomes the corpus luteum which produces progesterone to prepare for a potential pregnancy.

Understanding Ovulation Signs 

A variety of physical sensations and biomarkers accompany ovulation due to hormonal shifts: 

  • Ovulation pain – Cramping or aching near the ovaries 
  • Changes in vaginal discharge – Clear, slippery, and stretchy
  • Soft cervix – High, soft, and open cervix
  • Basal body temperature rise – Progesterone elevates the temperature 

These primary signs manifest during the ~24-48 hour ovulation window but dissipate once ovulation concludes. Secondary symptoms continue through the luteal phase.

Common Signs Your Ovulation Is Over

  • Reduction in abdominal discomfort – Less achiness or twinging sensations.
  • Thickening cervical mucus – Returns to cloudy, creamy texture.
  • Lower, firming cervix – Descends and closes off.
  • Sustained BBT rise – Temperature remains elevated due to progesterone.
  • Rising progesterone – Detectable in bloodwork.
  • Breast tenderness – Common PMS sign from progesterone. Increased libido – Estrogen and testosterone amp sexuality.
  • Higher energy levels – Estrogen boosts mood and energy.
  • Uterine swelling – Fluid retention enlarges the womb lining.
  • Constipation – Progesterone slows intestinal muscle movement.

The collective presence of these symptoms indicates ovulation is complete and the luteal phase has begun in preparation for potential implantation.

Secondary Signs Of Ovulation Conclusion

While every woman experiences slightly different ovulation symptoms and patterns, watching for the transition from primary to secondary signs provides confirmation that ovulation has passed.

App-based menstrual cycle tracking that records basal body temperature, cervical position, and symptoms establishes an understanding of individual ovulation patterns. Confirming when ovulation ends is useful for both conception planning and overall cycle awareness. 

FAQs

1. How long after ovulation do symptoms go away?

Primary sensations like Mittelschmerz pain typically resolve within 48 hours once ovulation ceases.

2. Does your cervix stay high and soft after ovulation?

No, the cervix usually descends, firms up, and feels closed about 1-2 days after you’ve ovulated.

3. Can you tell ovulation is over based on cervical mucus? 

Yes, mucus will transition from slippery and egg-white in appearance back to sticky, cloudy, and opaque.

4. How long does basal body temperature stay elevated?

BBT remains elevated until your next period starts. This sustained rise is caused by progesterone production.

5. Is it possible to not have any signs of ovulation?

Yes, around 10-15% of cycles may not exhibit classic ovulation symptoms for all women. Tracking BBT is most reliable.

In summary, noticing the transition from temporary ovulation sensations to more sustained PMS-type symptoms can confirm ovulation is complete. While subtle, charting physical and emotional changes throughout your cycle boosts understanding of this intricate hormonal process.

More: How To Boost Good Bacteria In Your Gut Naturally? An Ultimate Guide

Dr. Harold Gojiberry is not just your ordinary General Practitioner; he is a compassionate healthcare provider with a deep commitment to patient well-being and a passion for literature. With extensive medical knowledge and experience, Dr. Gojiberry has made a significant impact in the field of healthcare, particularly in the area of liver diseases and viral hepatitis.

Leave a Comment