Ovulation tests predict when you are ovulating during your menstrual cycle. The tests work by measuring the level of a fertility hormone called the Luteinizing Hormone (LH) in your urine. There is a dramatic rise in the level of LH just before ovulation, and this phenomenon is called the ‘LH Surge‘. The goal of any home ovulation test is to detect this surge, allowing you to pinpoint your ovulation date. With these tests, you can figure out your fertility window.
Choosing the Right Ovulation Test: Strip Tests vs Mid-Stream Tests
Ovulation test kits have been proven to be the most effective and least invasive way to track the luteinising hormone to predict your most fertile window.
It would be best to use ovulation tests multiple times during your cycle to ensure you don’t miss the LH surge. Furthermore, as these tests detect hormone levels in your urine, you need to collect your urine for these tests.
Two main types of ovulation prediction kits (OPKs) are available in the market. They work in the same way and differ based on the method of collection of the urine sample:
Although both types of OPKs operate on the same basic principle, specific differences make one better than the other in certain situations.
Read more to find out the advantages and differences between both and understand which option might be the best for you.
Why buy Ovulation Strip Tests?
Ovulation strip tests are generally cheaper than the other types of OPKs. Cost can be a significant driving factor when it comes to the choice of different urine ovulation tests, especially since you need to do multiple tests in your cycle to detect the LH surge, the tests’ cost can add up over time. The primary reason the ovulation strip tests are cheaper is not because they are unreliable, but because they don’t have a plastic casing surrounding them. They are generally cheaper to manufacture, transport, and store than the mid-stream tests.
The strips are a great option if you are on a budget and need to perform numerous tests during each cycle. The strips are as reliable as the mid-stream tests, so the reliability of the result should never be a question.
On the downside, however, the strip tests are a bit difficult to operate. They require you to collect your urine in a separate urine collection cup. Although the cup is included in our selected fertility test kits, collecting the urine sample can get messy.
The reading area is also smaller in test strips, making it sometimes difficult to read. However, this is not a big problem, just something to remember while deciding between these and the more expensive Mid-stream tests.
The strip tests, also called dip tests, involve dipping the strip into the collected urine. If you are looking to test multiple times throughout your menstrual cycle, the ovulation strip test is the best ovulation test choice for you.
Why buy Mid-stream Ovulation Tests?
For starters, the mid-stream tests are much more robust than the strip tests. These have a plastic casing around them, making them less fragile. As the name suggests, collecting urine is unnecessary while using these tests.
The casing is designed in such a way that it acts as a collection cup in itself. Another advantage of the plastic case is that the strip’s testing area is more secure and there is little chance of damaging the testing area accidentally while in storage or performing the test. The plastic casing also reduces the risk of cross-contamination. Due to the specific design of the tests, the reading area is quite wide, making it easily visible and readable.
A disadvantage of these tests is the cost. The mid-stream tests are more expensive compared to the ovulation strips. The cost can be a significant deciding factor if you go through several home urine ovulation tests within a cycle. That said, the ease of use and less messy nature of the tests can make the mid-stream test kits attractive for many. Mid-stream urine tests are a fantastic choice if you want to test for ovulation when out and about and need a discreet, easy option to detect your LH surge. Fertility2Family offers mid-stream tests at low costs.
Which ovulation test should I choose?
The choice between the ovulation test strips and the mid-stream test comes from cost and individual preference. One thing is obvious: both tests are equally reliable, and if your criteria are reliability and accuracy, you can do better with the strips because they can save you a bit of money while you try to conceive.
That said, the midstream ovulation kits are easily the more convenient option. If you are a working professional or out and about and need to perform the test quickly, going with the mid-stream kit is the way to go. The mid-stream tests are easy to perform and less messy. If you are looking for an ovulation prediction kit that gives you an accurate result you can rely on, you can’t go wrong with either of these.
Fertility2Family offers both ovulation test strips and midstream tests. Our tests are carefully designed and tested to give you the best and most reliable results. Regardless of which product you choose, we offer detailed ovulation test instructions on our website and the packaging. Find answers to frequently asked questions about how to use an ovulation test, when in your cycle to conduct an ovulation test, and when to have sex after receiving a positive ovulation test.
Australian ovulation test FAQ
What is the best ovulation test kit for use in Australia? Fertility2Family offers a range of ovulation test options, including ovulation strip tests and mid-stream ovulation tests, which are reliable and TGA-approved for use in Australia. We recommend considering your budget and testing frequency when choosing between the two options. Both ovulation strip tests and mid-stream tests accurately detect the LH surge, allowing you to pinpoint ovulation and increase your chances of getting pregnant.
How accurate are Fertility2Family’s Ovulation Predictor Kits? Our ovulation tests have been designed to be highly accurate, with over 99% accuracy in detecting the LH surge. They are TGA-approved and have been available in Australia for over ten years, so you can trust that you are getting a quality product.
Can I use Fertility2Family’s Ovulation Predictor Kits if I have irregular cycles? Our Ovulation Predictor Kits are designed to be used by women with regular or irregular cycles. It is recommended to test multiple times throughout your menstrual cycle to ensure you don’t miss the LH surge. Our Ovulation Predictor Kits are easy to use and come with detailed instructions on our website and packaging to help you get the most accurate results.
How often should I use Ovulation Predictor Kits? It is recommended to test multiple times during your menstrual cycle to detect your LH surge and predict ovulation accurately. At Fertility2Family, we suggest starting to test a few days before your expected ovulation date and continuing to test every day until you detect the LH surge. This will ensure that you don’t miss your fertile window.
How long does it take for Ovulation Predictor Kits to give accurate results? At Fertility2Family, our Ovulation Predictor Kits are designed to give accurate results in as little as 30 seconds. It is important to read the results within 5 minutes of performing the test, as the results may not be accurate if read later.
How sensitive are Fertility2Family ovulation tests? How sensitive are Fertility2Family ovulation tests? Our ovulation tests are designed to detect the Luteinizing Hormone (LH) surge at a sensitivity level of 25mIU/ml. This high sensitivity allows for accurate detection of the LH surge, which typically occurs 24-48 hours before ovulation. This gives you a precise and reliable prediction of your most fertile days, increasing your chances of conception. Our tests are TGA-approved and have been trusted by countless families across Australia for their fertility journey.
How do I interpret the results of an ovulation test? The results of an ovulation test are typically indicated by a line or a colour change on the test strip. A positive result usually means that you will ovulate within the next 12-36 hours. Instructions on interpreting the results will be provided with the test kit and are also available on our website.
How do I use Fertility2Family OPKs (Ovulation Predictor Kits)? First, determine the first day of your last menstrual period. This will help you determine the approximate time of ovulation. Begin testing on the 11th day of your menstrual cycle, or the day you expect to ovulate based on your cycle length, whichever comes first. Collect your urine in a clean and dry container if you are using the strip test. Hold the absorbent tip in your urine stream for a few seconds for the mid-stream test. Dip the test strip into the urine for a few seconds, or use the mid-stream test by holding the absorbent tip in your urine stream for a few seconds. Wait for the designated time, usually around 3-5 minutes, to read the results. A positive result will show a visible line indicating that ovulation will likely occur within the next 24-36 hours. Fertility2Family OPKs are TGA-approved and available in Australia, providing reliable and accurate results.
How many days in a row should I use ovulation tests? You should use the test for at least seven days to ensure you don’t miss your LH surge. However, you should use the test for as many days as necessary to detect your LH surge.
How do I store Fertility2Family OPKs? You should always store the OPKs in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in a damp or humid environment, as this can affect the accuracy of the test. Keep the tests in their original packaging until you use them. After use, dispose of the test properly and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Can I use expired ovulation tests? It is not recommended to use expired ovulation tests as the test results may not be accurate. The ovulation tests have a 2-year shelf life, and we always provide tests with a minimum of 20 months expiry.
Reliable, affordable, and easy-to-use home fertility tests
Embarking on your fertility journey can be filled with questions and uncertainties. At Fertility2Family, we are here to provide you with reliable, affordable, and easy-to-use home fertility and ovulation tests. Our products are designed to give you the knowledge and confidence you need to understand your body’s natural fertility signals. With our tests, you can track your fertility window accurately, helping you make informed decisions about your family planning. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way on your path to parenthood.”
Evan Kurzyp
Evan is the founder of Fertility2Family and is passionate about fertility education & providing affordable products to help people in their fertility journey. Evan is a qualified enrolled nurse and has expertise in guiding & managing patients through their fertility journeys.