When to Expect Ovulation After Taking Ovulation Pills for Seven Days?

If you take ovulation medication for seven days, when will ovulation occur?

Hello Doctor, I went to the hospital for a blood test on the second day of my menstrual cycle, and the results indicated polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
I started taking 21 contraceptive pills on May 26, finished the last pill on June 15, and my period started on June 17.
On the fifth day of my period, June 21, I began taking one ovulation medication daily for a total of seven days.
My obstetrician has scheduled a follow-up appointment for me on July 18, during which an ultrasound may be performed to monitor ovulation.
Doctor, before my appointment on July 18, should I start trying to conceive right away, or should I wait until after the ultrasound? Also, after taking the ovulation medication for seven days, when can I expect to ovulate?

Leila, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/27

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, ovulation typically occurs around 15 days before the onset of menstruation.
If you want to conceive, it's best to engage in intercourse during that time.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2017/06/27

More Info

When it comes to understanding ovulation after taking ovulation pills, it's essential to consider the timing of your menstrual cycle, the type of medication you're using, and your body's unique response to hormonal changes. Based on your timeline, you started taking birth control pills on May 26 and finished on June 15, with your period starting on June 17. After that, you began taking ovulation pills on June 21 for a total of seven days.

Typically, ovulation occurs about 12 to 16 days before the start of your next period. Since your menstrual cycle appears to be around 29 days, ovulation would likely occur around day 14 to 15 of your cycle, which would be approximately July 1 to July 2. However, since you have been on hormonal medications, your body may take some time to adjust, and the exact timing of ovulation can vary.

After completing the ovulation pills, your body may take a few days to respond and release an egg. Given that you have a follow-up appointment on July 18 for an ultrasound to monitor ovulation, it is advisable to wait until after this appointment to engage in intercourse aimed at conception. The ultrasound can provide valuable information about whether ovulation has occurred and the health of your ovaries.

If you are eager to conceive, you can start tracking ovulation signs such as changes in cervical mucus, basal body temperature, and ovulation predictor kits. These methods can help you identify your fertile window, which is typically the few days leading up to and including the day of ovulation. Engaging in intercourse during this window increases the chances of conception.

In summary, while you may feel the urge to start trying to conceive immediately after taking the ovulation pills, it is generally best to wait until after your July 18 appointment. This will allow your healthcare provider to assess your ovulation status and provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. Remember that every individual’s body reacts differently to hormonal treatments, so patience and careful monitoring are key to understanding your cycle and optimizing your chances of conception.

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