Saliva Fertilty Monitors: Tips for Accurate Readings
Saliva-Based Fertility Monitors
When a woman is on the verge of ovulating, her saliva begins to form a fern-like pattern (when viewed under a microscope) due to an increase in the level of salt/estrogen present. This pattern - which looks like a reticulate network of crystals - begins to appear around 3 to 4 days prior to ovulation, and remains present for one or two days after you ovulate.
With saliva-based fertility monitors, such as Fertile Focus [1], you apply saliva (or in some cases, cervical mucus) to a slide or directly to the viewing window of the microscope. The slide is then inserted into the monitor and allowed to dry for a short period. The monitor serves as a magnifying lens which allows you to identify the fern-like pattern, and therefore, the best time for having procreational sex.
What to expect when reading results
Typically, results patterns will conform to the following general schedule, though other variables like cycle length may influence results:
---- Negative Results from Day 1 of your cycle.
- 0-2 Days Transitional (High Fertility
- 2-4 Days Plosive (Peak Fertility)
- 0-2 Days Transitional
--- Negative through the duration of the luteal phase.
Important tips to follow when using the test:
* Do not eat, drink, brush teeth for several hours before taking the sample.
* Try using a sublingual sample (from below the tongue).
* Please clean the window where you apply the saliva after/before every test.
* Ensure that the sample is dry before viewing.
* Ensure applicator or finger is clean and dry before applying the sample.
Advantages: They are relatively inexpensive [1] (as low as $24.95).
Advantages: May be used with LH urine tests to further enhance accuracy in pinpoint peak fertility.