Ovulation Issues: Your Questions Answered by a Specialist - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Ovulation issues


Hello Doctor, my last menstrual period was from October 28 to November 1, with a cycle length of 31-32 days.
I used an ovulation test on November 9, but as of today, I have not seen a clear positive result.
Yesterday, November 13, an ultrasound showed a follicle measuring 1.8 cm.
I would like to ask you: 1.
From November 7, I experienced vaginal wetness that lasted until November 11, and on November 11, I noticed a large amount of egg white cervical mucus.
However, from November 12 until now, it has been relatively dry, although there is still some slight egg white discharge.
Since I have not detected a positive result, could I have ovulated on November 11? 2.
After ovulation, can it be detected on an ultrasound? Is it possible that I ovulated on November 11, and the ultrasound yesterday showed the remaining second-largest follicle? I apologize for my lack of understanding and appreciate your help.
Thank you!

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/14

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, on November 13th, the follicle measures 1.8 cm, which suggests that ovulation is approaching.
Please follow up with the obstetrics and gynecology department to monitor follicular development and determine the ovulation period.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/11/14

More Info


Understanding ovulation and its related issues can be quite complex, especially when trying to interpret symptoms and test results. Based on your menstrual cycle and the details you've provided, let's break down your questions regarding ovulation and ultrasound findings.

1. Ovulation Timing: You mentioned that your last menstrual period was from October 28 to November 1, with a cycle length of 31-32 days. Given this cycle length, ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before the start of your next period. If we assume your next period is expected around December 1-2, ovulation would likely occur around November 17-18. However, ovulation can vary from cycle to cycle, and factors like stress, illness, or hormonal changes can influence this timing.

The presence of cervical mucus that resembles egg whites (clear, stretchy, and slippery) is a strong indicator of approaching ovulation. You noted that you observed this type of discharge from November 7 to November 11, which aligns with the fertile window. The fact that you saw a significant amount of egg white cervical mucus on November 11 suggests that ovulation could have occurred around that time. However, the absence of a significant rise in the luteinizing hormone (LH) detected by your ovulation test (T>C) may indicate that the surge was either not detected or that ovulation did not occur as expected.

2. Ultrasound Findings Post-Ovulation: After ovulation, the follicle that released the egg transforms into a structure called the corpus luteum. This structure can be seen on an ultrasound, typically appearing as a small cystic area on the ovary. The size of the follicle you mentioned (1.8 cm) could indicate that it was a mature follicle, but it is also possible that it was a residual follicle from a previous cycle or a new one that had not yet ovulated.

If you did ovulate on November 11, the ultrasound performed on November 13 may have shown the remaining follicle or the corpus luteum, depending on the timing of the ultrasound in relation to ovulation. It's also worth noting that sometimes multiple follicles can develop, and not all will release an egg, which could explain the presence of another follicle on the ultrasound.

In summary, it is plausible that you ovulated around November 11, given the cervical mucus changes. The ultrasound findings could represent either the corpus luteum from that ovulation or another follicle that was still maturing. If you continue to have concerns or if your menstrual cycle does not follow the expected pattern, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in reproductive health. They can provide further evaluation and possibly recommend additional testing to better understand your ovulation patterns and overall reproductive health.

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