Ovulation Timing with Letrozole Treatment
Based on your letrozole treatment regimen, you most likely ovulated between cycle days 14-16, which is why intercourse was recommended through cycle day 16 to ensure optimal timing for conception. 1
Understanding Your Ovulation Window
When taking letrozole for ovulation induction, the timing follows a predictable pattern:
Ovulation typically occurs 7-9 days after the last letrozole pill, so if you started on cycle day 3 and finished on day 7, ovulation would be expected around cycle days 14-16 1
The fertile window extends several days before ovulation because sperm can remain viable for up to 5 days in the female reproductive tract 2
Intercourse through cycle day 16 ensures sperm are present when the egg is released, maximizing conception chances by covering the entire fertile period 2
Why Sex Until Cycle Day 16?
The recommendation for intercourse through cycle day 16 is strategically designed to:
Cover the predicted ovulation window of days 14-16 when using letrozole started on cycle days 3-7 1
Account for natural variability in ovulation timing, as even with letrozole, the exact day can vary slightly between cycles 1
Maximize sperm availability during the critical 24-36 hour window when the egg is viable for fertilization 2
Determining Your Specific Ovulation Day
Without seeing your actual cycle data (ultrasound monitoring, LH surge testing, or basal body temperature), the most accurate estimate is:
Cycle days 14-16 represent the highest probability window for ovulation with standard letrozole dosing (2.5-7.5 mg daily for 5 days starting cycle day 3-7) 1
Ultrasound monitoring is essential for confirming follicular development and pinpointing ovulation more precisely, as recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists 1
A dominant follicle of 18-20mm typically indicates ovulation within 24-36 hours, which would help confirm the exact timing if you had monitoring 2
Important Monitoring Considerations
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists mandates ultrasound monitoring during each letrozole cycle to ensure appropriate follicular development and reduce multiple pregnancy risk 1. If you haven't had ultrasound monitoring, this should be incorporated into your treatment plan to: