THE DETERMINATION OF THE TIME OF OVULATION

Abstract

Literature on the various tests for detecting ovulation is reviewed. The tests discussed include: direct methods (flushing of ova from the tubes) recording of basal body temperature the benzidine test for uterine bleeding the Kraus method cervical mucus tests (fern test and spinnbarkeit) cold pressor test conjunctiva test measurement of electric potentials endometrial biopsy determination of plasma and urinary estrogens the hypermic response of the immature rat ovary to morning urine (Farris test) glucose test glucoseamine test determination of urinary gonadotropins determination of hydrogen ion concentrations in vaginal secretions pregnanediol determinations determination of the reduction time of oxyhemoglobin in the blood (Samuels test) mittleschmerz Takata test urinary sedimentation test analysis of vaginal smears and the Vitamin-C test (Pillay test). Since there is no good reliable single test it is suggested that a combination of several tests would afford a better estimation of when ovulation occurs.