Fertility ovulation microscopes are small handheld devices used to track ovulation and peak fertility window. This method of ovulation tracking was first observed in the 1960’s
The ovulation microscope works by observing the changes in saliva patterns. These patterns noticeably change starting one week prior to ovulation. This change is due to levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone and estrogen increasing in the body. Its then crystallization of salts in the saliva that creates the changing patterns on the microscope.
Studies show the saliva method of tracking ovulation is effective using an ovulation microscope. Furthermore using this adjunct is a benefit in understanding patterns in fertility and cycles.
The ovulation microscope works by observing the changes in saliva patterns. These patterns noticeably change starting one week prior to ovulation. This change is due to estrogen increasing.
The saliva patterning has three phases.
- Non-fertile
- Transitional
- Fertile
Non-Fertile: No ferning seen
Transitional: Small Ferns forming, change of pattern starts out as tiny disorganized ferning
Full Ferning: Fertile
Consecutive cycle days with saliva pattern changes
Parts and maintenance of the ovulation microscope
The ovulation microscope is reusable. It does not need any strips or slides as the lens is built in. It also comes with a replaceable battery. The ovulation microscope is discreetly designed, and is about the size of a lipstick.
How to use the scope
- 1 – place a tiny drop of saliva from under your tongue onto the lens (without eating or drinking within two hours)
- 2 – wait 5 minutes for the sample to dry, and observe the pattern through the illuminated view finder
- 3- wipe the lens clean for the next use
Troubleshooting
- No pattern seen: wait longer for it to dry or use less saliva
- Pattern may be seen while pregnant, breastfeeding, or just before period: that is normal, reflecting changes in hormones
- Particles seen through the view finder: take a sample first thing in the morning before you eat or drink, take sample from under your tongue with the tip of your finger
- Bubbles seen through the view finder: take sample from under your tongue with the tip of your finger, or use a mini pipette
- Can’t see the image: focus and tune in the viewfinder every time as saliva density changes with each sample