Understanding Post-OPK Positive Cycle & Ovulation After Birth Control

Question
I am 22 yo and have been TTC for one cycle. I used an OPK and on Feb 7th got a positive. I was supposed to get my period on Feb 23rd. I had menstral-like cramps for about a day and a half on and off but never any bleeding or spotting. I have taken more than my fair share of HPT's all negative. My question is since I'm apparently not pregnant will I ovulate around my normal time this month or do I have to wait for a period to try again? I came off of my BC pills (Yaz) at the end of January and had a normal period on time but I have had abnormal periods while off of BC. Thanks

Answer
Dear Ginny,

Since your cycles have been irregular since coming off the BCP and you have had several negative pregnancy tests, I would suspect that this is just a delay in your cycle due to a hormonal imbalance (as most cycle irregularities are). My suggestion would be to continue to try and conceive, possibly utilizing the OPK again this cycle since it will be difficult to determine an ovulation date with the skipped period. When you are actively trying to conceive, I suggest having sex every other day for about five days leading up to when you think you are about to ovulate and a few days beyond. As soon as you begin to experience abundant cervical mucus of an egg whites consistency, I would be starting!  :-)

Now - some women do write and tell me that it can take them as many as 6 weeks to get a positive HPT. Because of that, I would recommend testing for pregnancy every 10 days or so if you begin to experience any symptoms of early pregnancy. Testing any more often than every week is often just a waste of money. Make sure when you are testing that you are using 1st morning urine to get a concentrated sample for the most accurate results.

I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.

Brenda