Blog Post: DIY Baby-Making: Essential Tools for Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle
Are you and your partner trying to conceive a baby? Tracking your menstrual cycle can greatly increase your chances of getting pregnant. By understanding your body’s natural rhythm and knowing when you are most fertile, you can plan for the best time to try for a baby. In this blog post, we will discuss the essential tools for tracking your menstrual cycle, so you can take control of your fertility journey.
1. Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs)
Ovulation predictor kits, or OPKs, are one of the most popular tools for tracking your menstrual cycle. These kits work by detecting the surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) in your urine, which happens right before ovulation. By using an OPK, you can pinpoint the most fertile days of your cycle, giving you the best chance of conceiving.
There are two types of OPKs: traditional test strips and digital tests. Traditional test strips require you to dip the strip in a cup of urine and then wait for the results to appear. Digital tests, on the other hand, give you a clear “yes” or “no” answer, which can be easier to interpret.
2. Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Thermometer
A BBT thermometer is a special thermometer that tracks your body’s resting temperature. Your BBT rises slightly right after ovulation, so by taking your temperature every morning, you can pinpoint the day of ovulation and the most fertile days of your cycle.
To use a BBT thermometer, you need to take your temperature at the same time every morning before getting out of bed. It’s best to do this before you even sit up or move around, as any activity can raise your body temperature and affect the results.
3. Fertility Tracking Apps
In this digital age, there are several fertility tracking apps available that can help you keep track of your menstrual cycle. These apps allow you to input data such as your period start and end dates, ovulation predictor kit results, and BBT readings. They then use this information to predict your fertile window and ovulation day.
Some popular fertility tracking apps include Clue, Flo, and Glow. These apps also offer additional features such as personalized insights and tips for improving your chances of conceiving.

DIY Baby-Making: Essential Tools for Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle
4. Cervical Mucus Monitoring
Tracking your cervical mucus is another way to determine your most fertile days. As you approach ovulation, your cervical mucus becomes thinner, clearer, and more slippery, resembling egg whites. This type of mucus helps sperm travel through the cervix and into the uterus, making it easier for fertilization to occur.
You can monitor your cervical mucus by checking for changes in texture and consistency throughout your cycle. You can also use fertility tracking apps to help you keep track of these changes.
5. Menstrual Cycle Tracking Charts
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, tracking your menstrual cycle on a paper chart can be a helpful tool. These charts allow you to record your period start and end dates, as well as other symptoms and observations such as cervical mucus changes and ovulation predictor kit results.
You can find printable menstrual cycle tracking charts online, or you can create your own. Some fertility tracking apps also offer the option to print out your cycle data in chart form.
6. Ovulation Microscopes
Ovulation microscopes are another tool for tracking your menstrual cycle that can be used in conjunction with other methods. These microscopes work by detecting the changes in your saliva that occur right before ovulation. You simply place a drop of saliva on the lens of the microscope and wait for it to dry. If you see a fern-like pattern, it’s a sign that you are approaching ovulation.
Unlike other methods, ovulation microscopes can be used multiple times, making them a cost-effective option for long-term use.
Summary:
Tracking your menstrual cycle is an essential step in trying to conceive a baby. By using tools such as ovulation predictor kits, BBT thermometers, fertility tracking apps, cervical mucus monitoring, menstrual cycle charts, and ovulation microscopes, you can accurately pinpoint your most fertile days and increase your chances of getting pregnant. These tools can also help you identify any irregularities in your cycle, which may indicate underlying fertility issues that require medical attention. So, if you’re ready to embark on your DIY baby-making journey, be sure to stock up on these essential tools and take control of your fertility.






