Preovulatório

Preovulatório refers to a portion of the estrous cycle in female mammals that precedes ovulation. This period of the cycle is characterized by the continued development of the dominant follicle, which has been selected to release an egg during ovulation. Preovulatory changes involve the secretion of estrogens by the follicles, leading to an increase in the level of these hormones in the blood.

During this period, the cervix becomes more receptive, and there is an increase in cervical mucus production. The mucus becomes more abundant and is characterized by a fern-like pattern when dried, which is a result of changes in water and electrolyte content. This change in cervical mucus is an indication of ovulation being imminent, and it can be detected through the Bassed and Shoupe technique or other methods.

Furthermore, there is an increase in basal body temperature and a decrease in the length of the menstrual cycle. Other preovulatory symptoms that may be experienced include mood changes, such as mood swings or irritability, and physical symptoms like breast tenderness or increased lubrication.

The preovulatory phase is typically indicated by the presence of an ovulation predictor kit (OPK) test, which detects the presence of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the urine. This hormone is often released around 36 hours prior to ovulation, causing the test to return a positive result. The preovulatory phase is critical for fertility, as ovulation typically occurs 24-36 hours after a positive OPK result.