QuestionI had a D&C on 10/24/08 and I had very light bleeding for 1 week. It has now
been 2 weeks since the procedure and I used an ovulation kit today which
turned positive. Does this mean I am really ovulating or is this from left over
hormones? Is it too early to try again or do I have to wait for 1 normal period?
AnswerDear T,
The chances are that you are ovulating. The ovulation kit tests for a surge in the luteinizing hormone (LH). Just prior to ovulation, women experience a surge - typically a short surge - where the LH level rises to a higher level. The OPK will help you pinpoint this surge and help you predict when you will ovulate. Most women will ovulate 12-48 hours after the LH surge is detected, the average being 36 hours after the actual surge. You should get a bit more notice (24-48 hours) by testing in the afternoon instead of the morning. It's advised to have sex the day of the LH surge and the two days after. Also consider "insurance" sex for one more day in case you ovulate late. I also will typically suggest, especially for women who have a difficult time pinpointing ovulation or have really irregular cycles, to have sex every other day from cycle day 11 through a few days after a positive OPK or cycle day 21 - whichever.
Because your hormones are still trying to get back into a regular pattern again and your body is still healing, the general recommendation is to wait through 2 normal menstrual cycles before getting pregnant again. However, doctors tend to have their own personal theories on this - from not needing to wait to waiting through 2-3 cycles. All I can give you is a "general" recommendation.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
