First time using OPK'S

[Crunchy23boys]

I used an ovulation strip today and the directions said that it would be as dark or darker than the control line... While mine was not as dark is was slightly lighter... Does that mean I'm gearing up to ovulate or they just go by you are or aren't?? Thanks in advance ladies..

[librarygirl]

I have clear signs of ovulation (fertile cm that dries up day after, ovulation pains, temp jump, even did hormone panel last month that showed that I had ovulated) but have never seen an OPK get as dark as the control line, even when taken every day during potentially fertile time. I will get clear lines but not that dark. So I know I ovulate, even though the OPKs never give me a clear +, based on their definition.

I know that doesn't answer your question, but that's been my experience. Charting and paying attention to your CM is more reliable than OPKs, IMO. Good luck TTC!

[pokeyAC]

Many people see the line get darker before it is dark enough to be positive.  Some people keep testing to see how long it stays positive and then it starts to get lighter again.  The test looks for LH, luteinizing hormone, it builds up and reaches a peak, and after the peak, you ovulate.  That's why the lines may be lighter and get darker and then lighter again.  Good luck!

[Crunchy23boys]

Thanks for your responses ladies! Todays line looks fuller... like just as think as the control line & seems a darker.. I guess because its thicker. Im just gonna keep on BD just to be sure. Just nice to know Im producing the hormone to ovulate. That was one of my concerns.. Thanks again ladies! :)