What does this mean for you?

Simply put: business as usual, but with even more opportunities ahead.

• Same Award-Winning Support – You’ll continue to receive our Feefo Platinum Award-winning customer service from the very same friendly, knowledgeable team that has been supporting you for years.
  
  

• No Disruption to Your OvuSense Experience – Your OvuSense sensors and app will work exactly as they do today. Nothing about your tracking, data, or functionality will change.
  
  

• A Shared Commitment to Data Security – OvuSense and Ultrahuman share the same unwavering dedication to protecting your privacy. Your sensitive health data continues to be stored securely, encrypted, and used only to deliver your personalised insights. You remain in full control of your information, with the ability to delete or export it at any time. Ultrahuman are ISO 27001 certified for data security and OvuSense uphold strict medical device standards under ISO 13485 certification. Both companies’ practices meet GDPR and HIPAA standards.
  
  

• The Same People, the Same Commitment – Our dedicated team remains in place, ensuring the same high standards of care and innovation you’ve always trusted.

We’re proud of the trust you place in OvuSense to support your fertility and cycle health. Joining forces with Ultrahuman allows us to build on our 15-year heritage of clinically proven women’s health technology, while continuing to put you at the heart of everything we do.

If you have any questions, our customer support team is here, just as always, to help.

Thank you for being part of the OvuSense community. The future is bright, and we’re excited to share it with you.

– The OvuSense Team

Polycystic Ovarian or Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition, impacting 8-13% of those assigned female at birth, during their reproductive lifespan. When you first find out you have PCOS, you’re likely to have many questions about how it might affect your ability to conceive.

The good news is, yes, it is possible to get pregnant with PCOS, although it might take a little longer and require some specific strategies or treatments from your doctor. Knowing where to start can make a big difference, and that’s what this discussion is all about.

For those looking to boost their chances, understanding PCOS’s impact on fertility is a crucial first step. Various lifestyle changes can support natural conception and in managing your PCOS. Eating well and staying active are often recommended strategies. Alongside these, there are medical treatments available that can help.

Key Takeaways

• PCOS does not prevent pregnancy but may require special attention and it may take longer to conceive
• Knowing if and when you ovulate is essential.
• Lifestyle management and medical treatments can aid fertility for women that have PCOS.
• Emotional and practical support are vital during the journey.

Understanding PCOS and Its Impact on Fertility

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder believed to  impact around 1:10 women worldwide,that can affect a person’s ability to conceive. It often causes hormonal imbalance, irregular menstrual cycles, disrupts ovulation, and can lead to other health issues. Let me explain what PCOS is, how it shows up in symptoms, and how it impacts the ability to conceive.

What Is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects the ovaries. In women with PCOS, the ovaries may become enlarged and contain small cysts. These are fluid-filled sacs that surround the eggs.

The condition can lead to elevated levels of male hormones, known as androgens, which can interfere with regular ovulation, and in 35-80% of women cause insulin resistance.  This hormonal imbalance is a key factor that contributes to fertility issues in women with PCOS. The condition is one of the most common causes of infertility in women and those assigned female at birth of childbearing age.

PCOS Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of PCOS can vary greatly from person to person. Some of the common signs include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, thinning of hair on the scalp and weight gain.

Irregular periods are one of the most noticeable symptoms. Women with PCOS may experience long gaps between menstrual cycles or have periods that last for many days. Due to these symptoms, diagnosis can sometimes take a while.

Healthcare providers often conduct physical exams, blood tests to check hormone levels, and ultrasounds to examine the ovaries. Identifying PCOS early can help in managing symptoms and planning for conception if that’s a goal.

How PCOS Affects Ovulation and Conception

PCOS often results in irregular or absent ovulation, meaning that eggs are not released each month as they should be. This irregularity makes predicting ovulation difficult, reducing the likelihood of conception during a regular menstrual cycle.

Anovulation, or the absence of ovulation, is a direct result of hormonal changes and elevated androgen levels. These hormonal changes can also lead to infertility by preventing the development of a healthy egg ready for fertilization. Recognizing these patterns and working with a healthcare provider can help manage these effects with treatment options like lifestyle changes, medication, or fertility treatments.

Lifestyle Management and Natural Conception

Managing PCOS through lifestyle changes can significantly impact your ability to conceive naturally. By focusing on understanding ovulation, improving diet, and where possible maintaining a healthy weight, you can enhance your chances of getting pregnant.

Understanding If and When You Ovulate

Tracking ovulation is crucial for women with PCOS, but knowing when you ovulate is much more difficult if you have irregular cycles, or the timing of your ovulation varies from one cycle to the next.  Standard tracking methods like ovulation prediction kits/ hormone monitoring (OPKs) or basal body temperature monitoring may well not work for women with PCOS.

That’s because OPKs rely on measuring your Luteinising Hormone (LH) surge to predict when you are about to ovulate, and LH often peaks early in your cycle if you have PCOS without ovulation occurring 24-48 hours afterwards.

Equally, basal body temperature with an oral thermometer, and skin-based temperature measurement with a watch or ring,relies on confirming your ovulation in one cycle to predict when you might ovulate in your next cycle.  If your cycles are irregular, or when you ovulate in the cycle varies, that means the prediction of when you should have sex to try and get pregnant will be inaccurate and might be out by up to a week. 

That’s where OvuSense comes in because it is the only product which can predict ovulation and confirm it using data in the current cycle.  By measuring core body temperature, rather than basal body temperature, OvuSense is able to see the rising temperature curve created by the release of progesterone during ovulation. It is clinically proven to predict ovulation and gets the answer right 96% of the time, and it then confirms ovulation with 99% accuracy. OvuSense customers say this makes them feel in control, and it’s one reason why OvuSense is so good at helping people with PCOS to get pregnant.

Diet and Nutrition for PCOS

A balanced diet plays a pivotal role in managing PCOS symptoms and improving fertility. Focus on consuming whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds should become staples in your diet. Including high-fiber foods helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance.

For many women, managing weight can be a game-changer. I know that it is hard to lose weight when you have PCOS, but not impossible. Even modest weight loss can restore ovulation. Reducing processed foods and refined carbohydratefoods is critical. I encourage considering low glycemic index foods, as they prevent spikes in blood sugar and help maintain a healthy weight.

Exercise and Weight Management

Regular exercise is essential for managing PCOS. Activities like walking, swimming, or cycling can be beneficial. Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly can help reduce stress and support weight loss. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, which is particularly important for women with PCOS.

Strength training, along with aerobic exercises, can offer additional benefits. Building muscle mass boosts metabolism, helping to maintain a healthy weight. Start with easy workouts and gradually increase intensity as your fitness improves. Not only does this enhance overall health, but it also improves the chances of conception by optimizing hormonal balance.

Many users and their doctors report have successfully used OvuSense to provide feedback on whether diet and exercise are working. It’s the only product that can show you the changes in your cycle as a result of the changes you make.

Medical Treatments to Enhance Fertility

When dealing with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), medical treatments can improve fertility. These options range from medications to advanced reproductive technologies and surgical interventions. The goal is to increase the chances of ovulation and successful pregnancy.

First-Line Fertility Medications

For many, the first step in fertility treatment involves medications like clomiphene citrate and letrozole. These drugs, referred to as ovulation induction medication, stimulate ovulation by encouraging the growth of ovarian follicles. Your doctor can let you know what drug and dose would be suitable for you.

Metformin, a medication typically used to manage blood sugar levels, can also be part of a fertility regimen. It helps improve insulin resistance, which can, in turn, regulate menstrual cycles and promote ovulation. Combining metformin with ovulation induction medication may enhance the chances of getting pregnant. Discussing with a healthcare provider is essential to determine which medication is most suitable.

Advanced Reproductive Technologies

When medications alone don't work, advanced reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be considered. In IVF, eggs and sperm are combined outside the body and then implanted into the uterus. This process can have a higher success rate, although it is more invasive and costly than other methods.

Using gonadotropins, injectable hormones, is another step. These hormones help stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. They are typically used in combination with procedures like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF to increase the chance of conception. It's crucial to monitor the response to these treatments closely, as they can lead to ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, a serious complication.

Surgical Options for Enhancing Ovulatory Response

In some cases, surgical options such as ovarian drilling may be suggested, however this is now less widely used. This procedure involves making small holes in the ovaries using a laser or needle. The aim is to restore normal ovulation patterns by reducing the hormones that hinder ovulation.

Ovarian drilling is usually considered when other treatments have not been successful. It might be beneficial for certain women, but it carries surgical risks and isn't always effective. Consulting with a fertility specialist helps weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks. It's an option worth considering when other less invasive treatments have not yielded results.

Managing PCOS-Related Health Concerns During Pregnancy

Managing health concerns during pregnancy is crucial for women with PCOS. This condition can affect blood sugar levels and increase the risk of pregnancy complications. With careful monitoring and management, achieving a healthy pregnancy outcome is possible.

Monitoring Blood Sugar and Insulin Levels

With a diagnosis of PCOS, monitoring blood sugar and insulin levels during pregnancy is important. PCOS often accompanies insulin resistance, which can lead to increased risks of gestational diabetes. Regular checks and a balanced diet can help manage these levels. Eating small, frequent meals rich in fiber and low in refined sugars is beneficial. Doctors may suggest medication like metformin to help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

Preventing Pregnancy Complications

There are several complications that may arise during pregnancy if you have PCOS. Women with PCOS often have a higher risk of developing high blood pressure and preeclampsia. Regular prenatal visits are essential for early detection and management. Controlling weight gain and staying active through approved exercises can help reduce these risks. Monitoring for any signs of swelling, headaches, and vision changes is crucial.

Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy Outcome

To ensure a healthy pregnancy outcome with PCOS, personalized care and proactive management are key. Focus on following your healthcare provider’s recommendations, which might include regular check-ups, tailored diet plans, and possibly medication. Avoiding stress, getting adequate rest, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are also important. Engaging in prenatal classes and support groups may offer useful insights and emotional support.

Practical Considerations and Emotional Support

When trying to conceive with PCOS, it’s essential to consider both the physical and emotional aspects. Try focusing on practical approaches, like tracking ovulation, alongside addressing emotional well-being.

Timing Intercourse and Tracking Ovulation

Having regular periods is not common in PCOS, making timing intercourse a challenge. You may rely on several methods to pinpoint ovulation. Checking cervical mucus can give clues, as it becomes clear and stretchy around ovulation. Using  OvuSense then optimises your ability to understand if and when you are ovulating.

Coping with Emotional and Physical Changes

Dealing with PCOS often brings emotional and physical changes, which can seem overwhelming. Focus on managing stress, as high stress levels can affect fertility. Emotional support is crucial, so talking to friends or a therapist can be really helpful. They can listen and provide comfort during challenging times.

Pay attention to your body since physical changes like weight gain are common. Regular exercise and a balanced diet aid in managing my weight and overall health. Remember, self-care is vital. Balancing physical and emotional health is key to making the journey easier.

Building a Support System

Having a strong support system makes a significant difference. Take the time to connect with others who have PCOS, whether through support groups or online communities. Sharing experiences and advice is comforting and motivates me to stay positive.

Family and friends are also part of my network. They offer practical help and emotional support. By openly communicating with them about your journey, you’ll feel more understood and supported. Involving them lightens the emotional burden and will help you stay focused on your goal of trying to conceive.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to getting pregnant with PCOS, many questions arise about effective strategies, age factors, and natural treatments. Timing and signs of ovulation are also crucial elements to consider.

What are effective strategies for conceiving quickly with PCOS?

To increase the chances of getting pregnant with PCOS, focus on maintaining a healthy weight where possible, following a balanced diet, and staying active. Sometimes, doctors recommend medications that help with ovulation, like Clomid or letrozole.

At what point in a woman's age does PCOS affect fertility the most?

PCOS can impact fertility at any age, but as women approach their late 30s and early 40s, fertility naturally decreases. This age factor can make it more challenging for some women with PCOS to conceive.

Are there natural treatments that improve fertility in women with PCOS?

You may wish to explore options such as inositol supplements, acupuncture, and herbal treatments like spearmint tea. These may help balance hormone levels and improve ovulation, though more research is needed to fully understand the role of supplements and PCOS. You should discuss supplement use with a healthcare provider.

How does having regular periods influence the probability of becoming pregnant with PCOS?

Regular periods often signal regular ovulation. If cycles become more regular, the probability of becoming pregnant usually increases because it means there’s a predictable ovulation pattern.

What is the typical timeframe for women with PCOS to achieve pregnancy?

The timeframe varies greatly. On average, it might take longer than women without PCOS. If your trying for more than a year without success, you might like to consider consulting a fertility specialist for guidance.

How can I tell when I am ovulating if I have PCOS?

Tracking ovulation with PCOS can be tricky. Using OvuSense is a great place to start because it’s the only product that can predict and confirm ovulation using the data in your current cycle.

Emily had been struggling with pain, difficult periods, and fatigue for years, so she was desperate to find out what was causing her debilitating symptoms. For so long, she pushed doctors to find an answer to the pain she had been dealing with, only to be left with more questions. After years of feeling like she was in the dark, Emily found a doctor who listened to her and she finally received confirmation of what she suspected all along – she wasn’t being dramatic with her pain, as many doctors had insinuated – she had endometriosis.

Despite finally finding answers, Emily’s battle was only beginning. Recently, she opened up about her journey with endometriosis and how OvuSense ultimately helped her to conceive. Read more about her inspiring story in her own words below.

The Struggle For Answers

My endometriosis journey officially began when I visited the doctor for my pain at age 15, however, the pain began at age 12 when my period had first started. Although I had struggled with this pain for so long and knew something was wrong, I was ignored by numerous doctors, unfortunately including doctors who were women. I was told, “You’re a woman, why do you think you will be treated any differently?” and “If you can’t deal with this, you’re going to have a miserable life.” It was at this point that I stopped looking to doctors for help and instead tried anything I could to help the pain.

My mom also suffered with her periods, but she was unfamiliar with endometriosis, so that was never a possibility to her. She and my dad begged me to go back to the doctor, as it was upsetting for them to see me in so much pain. After once again returning to the doctor, it was suggested I go on a contraceptive pill to help with the pain. The contraceptive did help for the most part, but there were still months where I struggled immensely. I would call in sick to work, as I worked as a hairdresser and found it difficult to be on my feet for more than 20 minutes at a time, let alone for 12 hours a day. Unfortunately, my manager would still have me come in often, but I don’t necessarily blame them for this, as these symptoms were not well understood all those years ago. 

My undiagnosed endometriosis also affected my romantic relationships, as I couldn’t have fun on some days and sex could be very painful for me. It’s affected my friendships, as well, as I would need to cancel plans due to the pain and eventually stopped being invited out. This condition has affected me socially, mentally, and physically – more than I could ever put into words. 

A Reason For My Pain

Fast forward several years and many visits to various doctors, I finally gained the courage to really push for an answer when I was 21. At this point, I had been told I had Irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, a weakened immune system, and low B12 all before I was taken seriously!

In 2017, I was told I was showing signs of ovarian cancer and was sent for blood tests straight away. Thankfully, the tests came back negative, however, the doctor told me no further action was needed. I was devastated and begged for more tests, as I refused to believe the pain was from nothing. After doing internal and external tests, blood tests, and more, I saw a gynecologist who said I needed to have surgery to find out what the issue was. Finally, I felt like someone cared and listened to me. 

I had my surgery in November 2019. During the surgery, keyholes were made and it was quickly realized that my endometriosis was so bad that I would need a specialist to remove it. It was a surreal feeling. I finally had the answer and it wasn’t all in my head. I was stitched up and sent home to heal. 

Unfortunately, the stitches did not dissolve, and I was dealing with both recovering from the surgery and an endometriosis flare-up. While that would already be enough, the incision in my belly button was constantly getting infected, as well. As a result, I had to be on numerous courses of antibiotics for this. The infection got so bad that it turned into an abscess the size of a golf ball in my belly button. This happened in May 2020 – a full six months after my surgery – and in the pandemic lockdown! 

While preparing for surgery to remove the tissue, I had to do my own research and find private services to help get advice on foods to eat or avoid, exercises and stretches to help, etc. Not only that but my surgery was canceled so many times – one of these times even being when I was sitting in pre-op. 

I had a breakdown in November 2020, as the pain had become too much and I felt so alone. It wasn’t until April 2021 that I had the surgery to remove the tissue. While I appreciate that the National Health Service was under a tremendous amount of stress, it was unfortunate for me and others who were experiencing delays in surgery and treatment. 

Pregnancy with Endometriosis

My doctor also gave me the best advice for having a baby, as that is what my partner and I wanted. When we were ready to try, my doctor said he would give us six months and if we weren’t pregnant, his fertility specialist would step in. I only have one ovary and fallopian tube that works, as the other is unfortunately too damaged from the endometriosis.

We tried for a baby for four months on our own. Then on the fifth month, we decided to try OvuSense, and I fell pregnant one month later in November 2021 – it was so amazing! During my pregnancy my endometriosis subsided, so those months were the best time for me throughout my journey. 

Late in my pregnancy I was diagnosed with preeclampsia and had to be induced, which is where my endometriosis once again caused problems. My uterus did not stop contracting during labor, which they believe is due to my uterus being so damaged from my endometriosis. I had a very bad tear during birth, which needed surgery afterward to fix, as well. My groin and pelvis are still not right since giving birth, either – two full years after having my baby. 

I also suffered from postnatal depression, and it was as if I resented my baby for being born. My endometriosis had subsided while I was pregnant and I felt happy and safe, but as soon as he was born I started to feel anxious and scared it would all come back. Luckily, I got the help and support I needed at the time. 

A Turn For The Better

Today, I am so grateful to be in the position I’m in. I have found an employer who understands what I am dealing with, an amazing husband who cares, a beautiful son who has given me more than anything I could imagine, and the best family and friends, too. 

As far as my endometriosis goes, I currently am not suffering too much. While I still have my bad days and flare-ups, they are manageable for me right now. I have, however, now been diagnosed with an overactive thyroid, which comes with its own challenges. The reason I am mentioning this is that it affects my endometriosis, too. My body can only fight so much at one time and it can’t keep up with the overactive thyroid and endometriosis, so my immune system is weakened, in turn, causing more flare-ups. 

Despite all of this, I am also grateful to OvuSense for helping me achieve my ultimate goal of conceiving. When I am ready for another baby I will be using it again without question. It has saved my sanity and my heartbreak. 

Lastly, I truly believe that options like OvuSense should be better known to doctors. It shouldn’t take someone already going through a lot mentally and physically to have to spend hours and days online doing their research.

worldwide who have been diagnosed with endometriosis. As someone who has also battled PCOS, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, and a blocked right fallopian tube, Beya worried she may never conceive. However, after trying for 21 years, she became pregnant using OvuSense and ultimately gave birth to a happy, healthy baby. Now her baby is three, and although she counts her blessings, Beya continues to struggle with her endometriosis on a regular basis. 

For those who aren’t familiar, endometriosis is a condition where the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. It can be extremely painful and affects an estimated 1 in 10 women worldwide. During menstruation, the endometrial lining is shed from the uterus, but the lining that is attached outside the uterus has no way of leaving the body. While there is no known cause for endometriosis, some believe there is a genetic link to this condition. 

In this blog, Beya shares what daily life living with endometriosis can sometimes look like in her own words. 

A Painful & Isolating Experience

“Endometriosis has caused most of my adult life to be extremely difficult, both in terms of managing pain, as well as socially. Since I also have adenomyosis (a condition that causes endometrial tissue in the lining of the uterus to grow into the muscular wall of the uterus) and menorrhagia (heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding), I feel like death when I’m on my period. I’ve been dealing with chronic anemia since I was postpartum, as a result of a hemorrhage after giving birth. Unfortunately, I never seemed to get over that period of anemia associated with that and it’s been over three years! Every month, my period is just so hard on my body. 

Socially, my endometriosis causes me to cancel plans and withdraw from events. I couldn’t run a 5K race that I wanted to for months because I have been in so much pain lately that I couldn’t train for it. I also have to subject myself to taking pain medication and limiting activity (not easy with a 3-year-old!), among other things. It’s a horrible condition to live with and more than once I have considered a full hysterectomy just to TRY and live without the pain associated with all of my reproductive issues.”

Know That You Are Not Alone

If you are dealing with endometriosis, know that you are not alone in your experiences, even though everyone’s experience may be different. If you’re struggling to manage your symptoms or looking for more information about endometriosis, look for a support group online to connect with others who share your experience. You can also find an endometriosis specialist in your area online, or by contacting local providers to see if they are trained in treating or managing this condition

Whether you’ve been using OvuSense for some time now or are just considering ordering a sensor, you likely still have some questions about how everything works. For example, can OvuSense help with super-long cycles? What happens if your toddler wakes up in the middle of the night and your data is skewed? Can you wear OvuSense on an airplane? Don’t worry – our OvuSense experts are answering all of those questions and more. So wherever you are in your TTC journey, we’ve got you covered!

Question: I Have PCOS – Which OvuSense Product Is Right For Me?

Answer: If you have PCOS or irregular cycles, we recommend the OvuSense Advanced Fertility Monitor. Suited to track all cycles, the OvuSense Advanced can predict your ovulation in real-time and has a clinically proven ovulation detection rate of 99%.

Check out our quiz to find out which OvuSense monitor is best suited to your needs.

Still unsure? Our Friendly Customer Support Team is available 7 days per week, to answer any questions that you may have. Simply click on the Live Chat Window or contact us here.

Question: I Need To Delete A Download – What Can I Do?

Answer: Simply tap on the Help button via your OvuSense App to reach our friendly Customer Support Team. Here, they will be able to access your account and remove any data points that have been downloaded by mistake.

Question: I Can’t Understand My Chart – Am I Ovulating?

Answer: Interpreting your chart can be daunting at first, but the more you use your sensor, the easier it becomes to track your cycles. There are lots of helpful tips and information available on how to read your charts.

Go to the OvuSense App > Help > Understanding My Charts & Cycles. Find helpful tips and explanations on how OvuSense uses your data to predict and detect ovulation. You can also reach out to our Customer Support Team, who can help you review your chart. We also have a private Facebook group, “OvuSense Users Group”, where users and admin experts can review charts, answer questions, and share advice.

Question: Can I Share My Data With My Doctor Ahead Of My Fertility Appointment?

Answer: Yes, absolutely! If you have the Flex, Annual, or OneTime Subscription, you will also have access to the OvuSense Pro Portal. This allows you to share your detailed cycle information remotely with your chosen practitioner.

Question: I Have Super Long Cycles – Can I Use OvuSense?

Answer: Yes! The OvuSense app is designed to track up to 250 days in any one cycle. Unlike other calendar-based trackers, OvuSense calculates ovulation in real-time based on your temperatures and does not rely on your cycle dates.

Question: I’m In My Fertile Window And Forgot To Use My Sensor Last Night. Will My Ovulation No Longer Be Accurately Detected This Month Since I Missed This Day?

Answer: OvuSense can sometimes confirm despite missing data! However, if there are multiple days of missing data and/or the data turns out to be on key dates, this can prevent the detection and subsequent confirmation of ovulation. If OvuSense cannot be at least 99% confident that ovulation has occurred, then it will not provide a confirmation.

Question: What Benefit Does OvuSense Have When You’re Doing A Transfer?

Answer: Wearing the sensor after a transfer will enable you to monitor how stable your progesterone levels are! 

Question: I’m Looking To Purchase An OvuCore But I’m Woken Up By My 1-Year-Old. Will The Sensor Still Work Correctly For Me?

Answer: It depends on how long you’re up for and how much you move around. If it’s 10-15 minutes, this should be fine. Just be sure you exclude any time spent up from the total s

ix hours of wear. For example, if you’re up for 15 minutes, wear the sensor for a minimum of 6 hours and 15 minutes. Any spikes or anomalies in your temperature log caused by movement will be filtered out when calculating your average temperature for the night, so you must collect enough usable data.

Question: I’m Having An Overnight Flight Meaning I Won’t Be Able To Track My Temperature Accurately. Should I Still Wear My Sensor Or Not At All? I’m Worried If I Miss Doing It, It Will Mess Up My Temperatures For The Month. 

Answer: We don’t recommend wearing the sensor unless you are asleep or at complete rest, as too much movement can impact your temperature. I would recommend that you don’t wear your sensor. OvuSense can still go on to detect ovulation if the odd day is missed – as long as the missed data doesn’t follow in your fertile window.

Question: My Trend Line Has Never Turned Green, It Has Always Stayed Orange. I’ve Always Had Confirmed Ovulation On The App And With

 Blood Tests. Is It A Bad Thing That It Hasn’t Changed? 

Answer: For the OvuFirst, the line that is used to predict ovulation is orange/maroon. The green line is for OvuCore!

Now You’re An OvuSense Expert!

If you too had one of these questions, we hope we were able to clear up any confusion. If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team using our customer support form, Facebook, or Instagram! As always, we’re sending you lots of baby dust on your fertility journey!

2024 is here! Every year, the new year brings an opportunity to visualize your hopes and dreams through a fresh perspective. If pregnancy is top of your list, you may be interested in incorporating some lifestyle changes that support fertility into your routine. We know there is a ton of information out there, so if you’re wondering where to start, we’ve got your back! In this blog, some fertility experts are sharing their recommended lifestyle tips for boosting fertility – from making healthy food choices to staying active and prioritizing your well-being. Which will you try this year?

Tip #1: Diversify Your Diet

“As a fertility specialist, my top piece of advice for couples trying to conceive this year would be to avoid inflammatory foods and lifestyle choices. This would include ultra-processed foods, added sugars, synthetic ingredients, and excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, all of which can deplete the body of vital nutrients needed for conception. Having high levels of any of the above in the diet can impact the quality of both egg and sperm health and can be detrimental to overall fertility. Instead, try to increase consumption of whole foods, which include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, pulses, and legumes.  

In general, focus on diversifying the diet with plenty of different types of plant-based foods per week. This will ensure you are getting vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber which all promote optimal fertility and increase the chances of conception. Instead of rotating the same food choices in your weekly shop, try something new and where possible buy seasonal produce, which will be higher in nutrient value. Local farm shops and fruit and vegetable delivery boxes are great places to shop if you need some inspiration.” – Gail Da Silva Madalena, Fertility Specialist at The Natural Balance 

Tip #2: Carve Time Out for Physical Activity

“Exercise is an important part of maintaining physical and emotional health. However, when it comes to TTC, over-exercising can actually be detrimental to your fertility. I recommend implementing the following three activities into your daily routine to support ferility and keep your body in the movement:

• Yoga – Any kind of yoga is excellent for fertility, whether it’s a virtual or in-person class. For quick practice at home, try running a Google search for fertility-enhancing yoga sequences.

• Light Weight Lifting – Strength training can be a great way to boost fertility. If you’re unsure where to begin, recruit a gym buddy and try to have some fun with it.

• Walking – This activity is my ultimate favorite, and it’s so easy to do anywhere!” – Priscilla Goddard, Fertility Practitioner at Heirloom Fertility

Tip #3: Prioritize your Mindset

“Another important piece of advice would be to take some time to try and prioritize your mindset daily. Trying for a baby can take its toll on you both mentally and physically. Chronic levels of stress can be one of the most detrimental factors to fertility for both men and women, so now is the time to learn some new techniques to get this under control. Mindfulness looks different to everyone, so it’s about finding something that works for you and most importantly finding something you can implement into your day-to-day life. A few options include reading, listening to music, walks in nature, breath work, meditation, yoga, massage, acupuncture or just having a relaxing bath at the end of a long day. Whatever helps you to switch off and calm down will invariably help improve the odds of getting pregnant faster.” – Gail Da Silva Madalena, Fertility Specialist at The Natural Balance 

Bring On The New!

Whether you decide to try one or try them all, we hope these tips are helpful as you begin or continue in your journey to conceive. Whatever you choose, do your best to have some fun with it and document your experience along the way. On behalf of the team at OvuSense, we’re sending you lots of baby dust in 2024!

As 2023 comes to a close, we at OvuSense are reflecting on all of the positive events of the past year, such as the World Health Organization officially declaring the end of the pandemic, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour boosting the U.S. economy (she’s coming for Europe in 2024!), and much more. Beyond world events, we wanted to take this opportunity to look back at the positive experiences that those within our TTC community had this year. And if 2023 wasn’t the year that you became pregnant, know that hope is just around the corner in 2024!

Clara’s Rainbow Baby

After several years of trying to get pregnant with no success, I came across OvuSense. I was immediately intrigued by the statements of its accuracy because I have never had regular cycles and I had trouble knowing when I was ovulating. I got tired of taking ovulation tests every morning and night, and sometimes I would just forget. When I finally purchased my OvuSense monitor, it only took a couple of months for me to understand my cycles and confirm that I was ovulating every month! After five cycles, I got my first positive test. Unfortunately, we lost that baby, but 15 months later I got pregnant while using OvuSense again and we later had our rainbow baby!

Beyond the accuracy of their technology, OvuSense also offers impeccable customer service. Their team members and customer support are extremely helpful and they always answer my questions promptly. I have recommended OvuSense to friends and family members and I will continue to do so. I’m very thankful for OvuSense and the beautiful blessing it helped bring into our family.

Laura’s Positive Change in Her TTC Journey

I have the greatest appreciation for the incredible science behind OvuSense! I can not recommend the sensor enough as a mum of one who is pregnant again with baby number two, which I 100% believe were both successfully conceived with OvuSense.

I’ve always had irregular periods with my cycles ranging between 19-50 days, which I know is far from the textbook “perfect” 28-day cycle. After discussing this with my doctor, she recommended using OvuSense to work out what was going on with my cycles, and it was the best advice ever.

After using the sensor for a few months, I learned so much more about my cycles and grew to understand them. I 100% attribute this to falling pregnant twice. Differing from the supposed typical day of ovulation (14), I ovulated on days 20 and 22 for the months I fell pregnant. If it hadn’t been for the sensor, we may have stopped trying after passing the “key date”. I literally wouldn’t even try for a baby again without OvuSense and if it weren’t for the sensor, I believe we’d still be trying. I genuinely can’t recommend it enough.

Special thanks and mention must also be given to the exceptional support available from OvuSense - the response times were always within a few hours of asking queries to understand my chart, etc., which meant a lot, as TTC is quite a time-sensitive process, so such prompt responses were very appreciated.

Forever grateful x

Sending Lots of Baby Dust for 2024!

If you became pregnant or welcomed your little one in 2023, congratulations! If your TTC journey did not look exactly how you imagined it to be, we are hopeful that your BFP is around the corner. On behalf of the team at OvuSense, we’re sending lots of well wishes and baby dust for the New Year.

With the holiday season upon us, parties, family gatherings, and office potlucks are sure to be quickly filling up calendars. Although there is a great deal of excitement surrounding the holidays, we understand that this can be a difficult time for those who are TTC, as there may be concerns of prying questions, pregnancy announcements, or whether or not to have that glass of wine during your two-week wait. However, the holiday season doesn’t need to deter you from prioritizing your fertility goals of starting or growing your family. In fact, there are ways that you can enjoy your holiday while also supporting your fertility – and one of them starts with food.    

In this blog, we’re sharing five delicious dishes that fertility nutritionists recommend indulging in while also supporting your fertility this holiday season. Pick one that’s your favorite or give them all a try – and hopefully, with a healthy meal in tow, you’ll feel more in control and better prepared for all that the holiday season brings.

Brussels Breakfast Hash

Recipe by: Caroline Redmond, Nutritional Therapist

This is my fertility-friendly breakfast or brunch containing a brassica vegetable seasonal star - the Brussels sprouts! Brassica vegetables are packed with valuable nutrients for both hormone balance and liver function, making them an essential group of foods for fertility optimization. Apples contain lots of gut-loving fiber and provide some sweetness without spiking your blood sugar levels (which isn’t good for hormone balance or our mood). Free-range eggs provide a fantastic amount of choline (think DNA synthesis!) and omega 3 (think anti-inflammatory!), and a sprinkle of dried cranberries to garnish can make this fertility-boosting brunch feel even more festive. Due to its naturally bright pigment, we know that we're getting a welcome dose of powerful antioxidants in there, too!

PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES
COOK TIME: 20 MINUTES
TOTAL TIME: 30 MINUTES

Serves: 2

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsps of extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsps of grass-fed organic butter
• 1 red onion chopped or sliced
• 400grams of Brussel sprouts peeled and chopped
• 1 apple (Braeburn or Gala for example) peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• 4 organic free-range eggs
• 2 slices of sourdough bread
• Dried cranberries to garnish

Directions:

1. Place an oven-proof pan (I like to use my non-toxic, Teflon-free, fertility-friendly ONE PAN), on medium heat and add the olive oil and butter. Add the red onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add your chopped Brussels sprouts and apple and cook until tender for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Turn on the oven grill to high and while you're waiting for that to heat up, take a wooden spoon and make four wells in the hash.
4. Crack open the eggs to place in each well and then transfer your oven-proof pan to the center of your oven under the grill for 2-4 minutes, depending on how well you like them cooked.
5. Place your sourdough slices in the toaster while you are waiting for the eggs to cook and then place one on each serving plate.
6. When your hash is finished, remove it from the oven with your heat-proof mat and a heat-proof mat/surface. Separate and serve onto your sourdough toast and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and garnish with a sprinkle of dried cranberries.

Cranberry Quinoa Salad

Recipe by: Aisling Fourie, Fertility Nutritionist

Supporting your fertility during the festive season doesn't have to be difficult. Overindulge in this wonderful festive Cranberry Quinoa salad that provides an abundance of festive flavors and nutrients that are essential when trying to conceive. Vitamin C-rich cranberries, parsley, and fresh orange juice support progesterone production and the antioxidants necessary to protect egg quality. Quinoa is a wonderful source of protein that supports blood sugar balance and hormone health, and with additional olive oil, it's a perfect fertility-friendly dish. Brazil nuts, renowned for their high levels of selenium and thyroid-supporting nutrients, add that little bit of crunch. Top it off with some leftover festive meats, avocado, or hummus and you have a crowd-pleasing dish that everyone can enjoy.

PREP TIME: 10 MINS
COOK TIME: 20 MINS
TOTAL TIME: 30 MINS

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked quinoa
• 1⁄2 cup of dried cranberries chopped
• 1/2 cup of Brazil nuts
• 2 scallions finely chopped
• 1 bunch of parsley chopped
• Optional Extras: Turkey left-overs, avocado, hummus

Dressing:

• Juice of 1 1/2 oranges
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt to season
• 1⁄2 tsp of allspice mix
• 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar

Directions:

1. After cooking quinoa, add cranberries, Brazil nuts, scallions, parsley, and any extras to a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl combine and mix the dressing ingredients.
3. Add dressing to dry ingredients and enjoy.

Slow Roasted Salmon with Citrus

Recipe by: Kirsten Mooring, Fertility Nutritionist

For this dish, I chose salmon because it’s fantastic for fertility as it’s high in protein and healthy fats, both being essential to support hormone balance and healthy oocyte development.

TOTAL TIME: 40 MINUTES

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• ½ bulbed fennel (cored, thinly sliced)
• 1 navel orange (thinly sliced)
• 1 lemon (thinly sliced)
• ¼ tsp sea salt (divided)
• 60 milliliters extra virgin olive oil
• 15 grams parsley (finely chopped)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 300ºF (149ºC).
2. In an oven-safe baking dish, add the fennel, orange, lemon, and half the sea salt and mix to combine. Place the salmon on top and season with the remaining salt. Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the top of everything and place in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the salmon is cooked to your liking.
3. Remove from the oven and add parsley. Divide between plates, serve, and enjoy!

Roasted Veggies with Cranberries & Orange

Recipe by: Kirsten Mooring, Fertility Nutritionist

This colorful side of veggies contains Brussels sprouts which, as previously stated, are a cruciferous vegetable and play a role in hormone detoxification. They also contain folate which is essential for healthy fetal development. The other ingredients, which are packed with color, contain healthy antioxidants which are important for fueling our cells and defending them against oxidative stress from a build-up of toxins in the body.

TOTAL TIME: 35 MINUTES

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 sweet potato (peeled, cubed)
• 1 bulb fennel (cored, sliced)
• 130 grams Brussels sprouts (trimmed, halved)
• 50 grams frozen cranberries
• 2 tbsps extra virgin olive oil
• ⅛ tsp sea salt
• 1 tbsp orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 ½ tsp thyme
• 1 tsp maple syrup

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF (176ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the sweet potato, fennel, Brussels sprouts, and cranberries on the baking sheet. Drizzle with oil and season with salt. Toss to evenly coat everything.
3. Bake in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until very tender, stirring once halfway through.
4. In a small mixing bowl combine the orange juice, thyme, and maple syrup. Drizzle over top of the roasted veggies. Season with additional salt if needed. Divide between plates and enjoy!

Sticky Ginger Pudding with Coconut Ice Cream

Recipe by: Kirsten Mooring, Fertility Nutritionist

While dessert is always a treat, my sticky ginger pudding is a great choice when TTC as it uses applesauce/apple puree to sweeten it rather than processed sugar. Instead of using all-purpose or bleached flour, the recipe calls for coconut flour, which is suitable for those who are gluten-free, and contains a bit of protein that supports the development of oocytes!

TOTAL TIME: 1 HOUR

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsps water (hot)
• 5 grams gelatin
• 245 grams unsweetened applesauce
• 120 milliliters coconut oil (melted)
• 105 grams maple syrup
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 55 grams coconut flour
• 270 grams coconut ice cream

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Lightly grease a pie pan.
2. Make your gelatin egg by combining the hot water with gelatin in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the applesauce, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, ginger, and baking soda.
4. Stir in the gelatin egg and apple cider vinegar. Then gently fold in the coconut flour until evenly combined.
5. Transfer to the pie pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch. The center should remain gooey.
6. Let cool slightly before serving. Scoop into bowls and top with ice cream. Enjoy!

When Rebecca and her husband first decided to start trying for a baby, they struggled to become pregnant. Ultimately, she learned she had PCOS and irregular cycles. After seeing an advertisement on social media, Rebecca immediately decided to try OvuSense, and she wasn’t disappointed – she quickly learned more information about her cycles, and that she wasn’t ovulating every month. By tracking her cycles with OvuSense, and with some help from medication, Rebecca was thrilled to finally become pregnant and later grow her family. Keep reading to learn more about Rebecca’s story in her own words.

A Bit About Rebecca

Hi, I’m Rebecca and I’m 38 years old, and my partner John is 40. We have been together for nearly 10 years. After two or three years together, we decided we wanted to start a family together. Unfortunately, we tried for a while and nothing was happening. Then, in 2017, I reached out to my doctor and was sent for some testing.

After some investigation, I was diagnosed with PCOS and subsequently put on metformin to help with this. My periods were always irregular for as long as I remember, but I had no idea this was the cause. I was referred to a fertility team, but due to my BMI being over 35 (it was 42 at the time), I was not offered any additional treatment or testing until my BMI was at or below 35. Determined to find answers, I began to lose weight.

Learning More About Her Cycles

I first discovered OvuSense in early 2019 after seeing an advertisement on social media. I had no idea when or if I ovulated, so I ordered my starter kit and subscription right away. Straight away, OvuSense taught me so much about my cycles – some months I didn’t ovulate and some months I did. When I did ovulate, it would often be late in my cycle!

A few months later, my BMI was 36 and my doctor agreed that I could go for a HyCoSy procedure, which checks for any blockages in the fallopian tubes. Luckily, all was fine.

Two BFPs & A Healthy Baby Boy

By June of 2019 after the HyCoSy, OvuSense detected I had ovulated on day 27 of my cycle. After trying this month, I got my first BFP! I was elated and thought how lucky we were to not have to go through any more treatment – it had worked! Sadly, just four weeks later I had an early miscarriage.

The next month, my fertility doctor prescribed clomid for a few cycles. Unfortunately, OvuSense didn’t detect any ovulation this time. I had awful side effects from it, too. After a discussion with my doctor about the side effects, he agreed to try a different medication called Letrozole. On my next cycle, I used OvuSense together with Letrozole. On day 19 of that cycle, I ovulated, and after eight days post-ovulation, I got my second BFP! Fast forward to July 2020 – I gave birth to a healthy baby boy.

Completing Our Family

In August 2021, we were ready to try again for another baby. My cycles were all over the place again, and I had put a lot of weight on, so I wasn’t able to get any Letrozole until I brought my BMI back down. After falling pregnant in March 2022, we sadly had another miscarriage. This time, it was much later – at 16 weeks pregnant on June 22nd, 2022, I gave birth to a sleeping tiny baby boy.

Fast forward again to later on that year, we used Letrozole alongside OvuSense. Once again, on day 19 of that cycle, I ovulated. Then, after 11 days post-ovulation, I got my fourth BFP! On July 24th, 2023, I gave birth to a healthy baby girl. Our family is now complete.

Why Rebecca Recommends OvuSense

Without OvuSense, I would never have learned what I now know about my body and my cycles, even without the medicated cycles. I’m so glad I discovered OvuSense, as I truly don’t think I would have fallen pregnant without it. It helped us time our baby dancing at the right times when I was ovulating, and now 19 is our lucky number!

I would recommend OvuSense to anyone struggling with TTC. Every penny spent on OvuSense was definitely worth it to enable me to have a family I’ve always wanted.

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Each year from October 9th through the 15th we recognize Baby Loss Awareness Week — a week to raise awareness for miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, or any other devastating baby loss. During this time, we pause to remember and grieve for ourselves, for our friends, or for those we may not even know who have experienced such heartbreaking loss. So many people carry this loss with them every day, and all of us at OvuSense honor their struggle and recognize their strength.

According to experts, as many as 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and approximately 1 in 160 pregnancies are affected by stillbirth each year in the United States. Whether or not you have endured a loss yourself, you likely know someone who has, and this is a time we stand with our friends, loved ones, and all the parents who have lost children to honor their memories.

The OvuSense team recently connected with Samantha Catanach, founder of Chasing Rainbows, a UK-based charity and peer support group that aims to make people feel comfortable talking about pregnancy loss and raise awareness of miscarriage and how common it is in order to make women feel less alone. Samantha founded Chasing Rainbows in May 2019 after suffering several devastating losses before ultimately being blessed with a family of her own. Below, Sam answers some common questions about Baby Loss Awareness Week and how people can show their support.

What Should People Know About Baby Loss Awareness Week?

Baby Loss Awareness Week is a time to acknowledge baby loss of any kind and any gestation, and to show that every loss matters. It’s a time to raise awareness of the impact that baby loss has on couples and their families, friends, colleagues, and others, and to show support. Ultimately, it’s a time to try to make the world better at recognizing the pain of baby loss and collectively supporting those who are grieving in the best way that we can.

how Can I Support A Loved One Struggling Through A Loss?

Baby Loss Awareness Week isn’t just for those who have been through loss – it’s for people to think about how they have supported their family members or friends and if they have been compassionate in their support. When someone is vulnerable and opens up to you and tells you of their struggles, whether it’s to conceive or to carry a baby to full term, the last thing they want to be told is, “Oh, well, you know – my friend Sally stopped taking her vitamins and went out, let her hair down, had a one night stand and is now pregnant with triplets. ”The right thing to do is to always validate someone who is opening up to you about fertility and baby loss. Just listen, acknowledge their struggle, and validate them – don’t offer them unsolicited advice that’s going to imply they are desperate or crazy. Just be present and open-minded to the way they are feeling and acknowledge the gravity of what they are going through.>

How Can I Learn More?

You never know what someone is going through and Baby Loss Awareness week may be the time that someone finds the strength to reach out and share their story or to ask for help and support. Reading campaigns and taking part in the Wave of Light is a perfect way to validate and acknowledge the loss of others and also to learn more about how you can show your support.>

Baby Loss Awareness Week ends on October 15th with Wave of Light Day. To commemorate this day, people across the world are asked to light a candle at 7 p.m., to create a literal wave of light marking the short light our babies brought to this work, and the impact they continue to have on us and our families. You can also use the hashtag #WaveOfLight if you’d like to share your story or read posts of inspiration or compassion from others. Join us in spreading a wave of light.

For more information about Chasing Rainbows, visit Chasing Rainbows Charity