Drugstores such as CVS , Rite Aid and your local grocery stores carry these kits, which are usually located near the home pregnancy tests. You don't need a prescription. Depending on what part of the country you live in, these kits can range in price from $15.00 to $40.00.

If you are trying to save money, you can get hosptial / clinic grade tests from many online retailers. They are the same types of tests you get from your Doctor's office but don't carry the cost of the brand name tests. BabyHopes.com carries these type of ovulation test strips for a very reasonable price with free shipping.

The kits detect a hormone, LH or luteining hormone, which peaks right before you ovulate. They are simple to use and said to be more accurate than the BBT method and can predict ovulation 24 to 36 hours in advance.

They are not, however, without incorrect readings and women with irregular periods usually run the risk of more inaccurate readings. While they do measure your LH levels, they cannot indicate whether you ovulate if you get a positive response. LH levels are known to peak either with or without the actual release of your eggs. For these reasons, following the directions word for word cannot be stressed enough.

Other things to keep in mind:

• Keep testing each day until you detect the hormone surge
• Have sex within 36 hours of the time your test shows an increase - that's your best bet for conception
• Use the test at the same time each day, and avoid drinking water in the hours before you test.
• If your cycle is extra long, you might need more than one test kit per month.

The Tests

Clearplan Easy - This is currently the best selling on the market. Consumer Reports, February 2003 rated the ClearPlan Ovulation test as the top rated ovulation test. It is reported very easy to use, with only one step to perform and it gives test results in five minutes. It is reported by the company to be 98 percent accurate. You can buy Clearplan Easy Ovulation Test Kids online at BabyHopes.com or in your local drugstore.

OvuQUICK - There are a lot of different bottles to discern, and some exact timings needed - but it also gives fairly accurate results in five minutes. This test includes a carrying case and is normally marketed to women whose menstrual cycles tend to be four days or more. It contains materials for up to nine tests.

First Response - This test also give results in approx five minutes, but there are numerous steps to follow.

The information on this site is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. If you have any concerns about your health, please consult a qualified health care provider immediately.