Overview and issues in ovulation prediction

Recent advances in our understanding of the physiology of reproduction have led to the ready availability of tests that allow women to self-monitor their fertility potential. Home pregnancy tests were the first to be marketed to the general public. Shortly thereafter, urinary luteinizing hormone tests also became available. In the privacy of her own home, a woman can now comfortably monitor for impending ovulation; by the time of her expected menstrual period, she can identify whether or not she is pregnant. However, there remains a great need for the development of further tests that women can use to identify the days of her cycle on which sexual intercourse is likely to result in pregnancy.