Pregnancy & Baby 

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Irregular cycles and ovulation

This is not an unusual scenario. Only textbooks have 28-day cycles. The important thing to remember is that it is the first half of the cycle that is erratic. After ovulation, you period will follow in about 14 days.

Ideal conditions for conception occur before and during ovulation, and the best way to detect ovulation before it happens is by evaluating cervical mucus. Fertile mucus is checked outside the vagina while wiping after every trip to the bathroom. Fertile mucus is clear, stretchy and lubricative -- almost like thin egg white. It stretches between the fingers. When it appears this way, it's the day to have intercourse.

I hope this helps. It is really the best way to detect ovulation in an irregular cycle. Remember to add some days onto your due date after you conceive to account for the longer-than-average cycle length.

Good luck.

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