How to use a Pregmate digital ovulation test

A digital ovulation test uses the same urine-based LH detection as test strips, but a reader interprets the result for you. Instead of comparing line darkness, the reader analyzes the LH level in your urine and displays one of three symbols: ++ (Peak), + (High), or − (Low). This removes the guesswork that comes with reading tests by eye.

Digital and strip tests detect the same hormone (LH) at the same threshold of 25 mIU/mL, so the accuracy of LH detection is comparable. The difference is in interpretation. Digital tests remove the subjectivity of judging line darkness, which helps if you find faint lines hard to read or if your readings are borderline. Strip tests give you more flexibility to track LH building over multiple days, but they require more careful interpretation.

Test strips show two lines that you compare manually: the test line is positive when as dark as or darker than the control line. Digital tests use a reader that analyzes the test electronically and shows a clear symbol on the screen. Digital tests are more straightforward to read, while strips are more economical for daily testing across longer cycles.

A ++ Peak result means LH is at its highest level, and ovulation is likely within the next 24 hours. It does not confirm that ovulation has happened. A progesterone blood test, ultrasound, or basal body temperature tracking can show whether ovulation happened. The ++ symbol is your signal that your most fertile days are here.

Conception can take several cycles even when timing is perfect. Many factors affect whether a Peak result leads to pregnancy. If you've been tracking for several months without success or you have concerns, talk to your doctor for personalized guidance. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends seeking evaluation after 12 months of trying if you're under 35, or 6 months if you're 35 or older.

The test may not have run correctly. Common reasons: the stick wasn't fully clicked into the reader, was removed too soon, the absorbent tip didn't get enough urine, or the reader got wet. Eject the stick and repeat the test with a new one, following each step carefully.

A few possible reasons: your LH surge may have been too short to catch, your peak may have been below the detection threshold, or this cycle may have been anovulatory (no egg released, which happens to most people occasionally). Testing twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, can help you catch a short surge. If you don't detect a peak across several cycles, talk to your doctor.

Your result appears on the screen once the test has finished, at about 5 minutes. Wait until the symbol appears before ejecting the test stick. Don't try to read the lines on the test stick itself: only the result on the screen is valid.