Q: How does the fertility and ovulation microscope work?

A: The fertility and ovulation microscope detects hormone changes that occur just prior to and during your fertile days and ovulation. As you approach ovulation an estrogen increases, "ferning" or crystal patterns can be viewed in dried samples of saliva. These patterns indicate that ovulation is about to take place and you are entering your fertile phase. The duration of your fertile time lasts usually 4-5 days before and the day of ovulation. Your most fertile days are the 2 days before and the day of ovulation. Unlike urine LH tests, a fertility microscope allows you to track fertility and your cycle changes. When you observe a positive result (crystal/ferning patterns), ovulation is likely to occur within the next 2-3 days.