The Fertile Window and Biomarkers: A Review and Analysis of Normal Ovulatory Cycles

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to review the principle concepts in literature concerning the fertile window in patients with normalmenstrual cycles. The basic concepts of ovulation are examined as well. The primary emphasis is on an analysis of Brown’s theoryof ovulation and a look at the basic concepts concerning secretion, the metabolism of follicle-stimulating hormones, and clinical,ultrasound and biochemical study of the follicular development of the fertile window. Also examined are the clinical biomarkers andthe different endocrinal metabolites that have been tested in the fertile phase of the cycle. A number of studies are reviewed in whichmeasured concentrations of sex steroid hormones in plasma and urine were shown to have a direct bearing on identifying the fertileperiod. This knowledge is relevant for different interest groups, particularly couples who are interested in fertility awareness andcan benefit by applying currently available technical know-how to detect the fertile window. Couples involved in fertility regulationprograms (FRP) who want to prevent pregnancy can benefit as well, as can those who want to pinpoint the most fertile time forbecoming pregnant. Other target groups include persons who have no experience with FRP courses, but would like to improve theirfertility awareness through a short interview, or couples who are looking for pregnancy options through NaProTechnology programsor have taken family orientation courses.