Questions? We have answers.
Ferning is a type of microscopic ovulation test. Saliva is placed on a reusable slide and viewed through the OvuScope microscope. When estrogen is high, a “fern-like” pattern forms due to salt crystallization — a natural window into your fertility. Explore the answers to the most common questions below, or dive into the Science of OvuScope.
Getting started & daily use
How do I replace the batteries? expand_more
The OvuScope uses one CR2032 lithium coin cell battery, which is widely available online, including Amazon, and in retail stores worldwide. To extend battery life, be sure to turn off the OvuScope when not in use.
This product uses lithium batteries only, which are not rechargeable. We do not recommend using rechargeable (lithium-ion) batteries.
Do not mix old and new batteries or different brands/types, as this may cause leakage, overheating, or damage. Keep batteries away from fire and excessive heat, and always check for signs of corrosion or leakage before use. Insert the battery as indicated, dispose of used batteries properly, and keep all batteries out of reach of children.
How do I clean the slides? expand_more
Rinse the slide with warm water and gently dry it with a soft cloth. Make sure no water spots or dust remain, as these can affect readings. Avoid using abrasive chemicals or materials—such as alcohol or paper towels—as they may scratch or damage the optical surface.
How much saliva do I need for testing? expand_more
Just a very small drop. Do not overfill the small square cutout.
Why can’t I focus the OvuScope? expand_more
To focus the OvuScope, start by looking at the edge of the square cutout on the slide and adjust the focus knob until it appears sharp. Then move the slide into view and fine-tune the focus until you see small dark shapes against a green background. If you’re still having trouble, try focusing without glasses or make sure your eye is positioned close to the eyepiece.
Understanding what you see
What does ferning look like under the microscope? expand_more
The image seems blurry. Why? expand_more
Please adjust the focus until clear. You also may need to allow the saliva more time to dry fully before viewing.
I’m not seeing any ferning. What’s wrong? expand_more
First, review the instructions to ensure you’re using the OvuScope correctly. Be sure to examine the entire area where the saliva has dried, as ferning patterns may appear along the edges. If you still don’t see any ferning throughout your cycle, there are a few possible reasons. Not all women experience ferning, which can be influenced by factors such as hormone levels—if you have concerns, consider consulting your physician. It’s also possible you may not be near ovulation when you first begin testing. For best results, observe a fresh saliva sample daily for about a month to better understand your individual cycle. Ferning patterns can also be affected by external factors such as smoking, eating or drinking (including water or alcohol), brushing your teeth, how the saliva is applied to the slide, or the timing and conditions of the test.
I saw ferning on the slide when I first took the sample, but it was gone several hours later. How long can a sample stay on the slide? expand_more
For best results, view the sample as soon as it has finished drying. While it may still be visible several hours later, this is not recommended. Environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can affect the sample over time and may impact what you see under the microscope.
My fern patterns look different from my friend’s. Is this cause for concern? expand_more
No, fern patterns are dependent on several factors that are unique to each person. Some women may fern more/less than others. After a few weeks of monitoring, you will be able to immediately recognize what is normal and expected for you.
How ferning & ovulation connect
How do these results compare with LH urine-based methods? expand_more
Differing from LH-measuring urine tests, ferning is a response to your estrogen hormone levels, whereas LH rises about 12–24 hours after estrogen spikes. So ferning gives you an extra day notice of your fertile window, giving you extra time to try to conceive.
Does ferning mean I’m ovulating? expand_more
When you see ferning throughout your sample, it indicates the beginning of your fertile window. OvuScope does not confirm you are ovulating or did ovulate. It’s a predictor of when ovulation may occur. Typically, ovulation should occur 24–72 hours after the peak ferning pattern appears. During/after ovulation, it is likely that you won’t see any ferning at all.
My ferning pattern results don’t align with my BBT thermometer results. What does this mean? expand_more
BBT thermometers provide a shorter spike, typically lasting 24–36 hours. However, ferning may last closer to 72–96 hours, providing an extended window in which to remain sexually active and maximize the chance of conception. Also, there are more factors that may affect your body’s temperature than factors that may affect your saliva chemistry, so the two methods may not coincide perfectly.
Does this work for women who have Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? expand_more
Yes, depending on your PCOS. The only difference is that you’ll typically need more than one month to learn about your cycle. Generally speaking, the menstrual cycle is usually between 25–35 days. A woman with PCOS could go months or longer without experiencing a period, so it may take several months to observe ferning.
The crystallization of saliva responds to estrogen, instead of LH, so you may get new & different information with this if you have PCOS, compared to other LH based methods. You may need to go through two or more full cycles to understand how your body is behaving in relation to this test. However, this is a good tool for people with irregular cycles, because its reusable. So you can test every day and keep track of your results, which is helpful if you have no idea of if or when you may ovulate within those 120 days. Just keep in mind, depending on how your PCOS is and in relation to your estrogen, you may or may not see ferning. If you have any questions along the way, you can contact us, but for specific questions about your individual medical needs, we recommend that you consult with your doctor.
What to know before you use it
Is the OvuScope FDA approved? expand_more
The FDA considers saliva-based ovulation methods as Class I devices, so the OvuScope is not subject to FDA approval.
Does the OvuScope work when I’m on certain medications? expand_more
The OvuScope shows ferning when you are ovulating, which is due to higher estrogen levels. If you are on certain medications that effect your hormone levels, it could affect your results with the OvuScope or any other ovulation testing methods. For specifics about your medications, please consult your doctor.
Can you use cervical fluid instead of saliva? expand_more
We only support usage of testing using saliva.
Can the OvuScope be used as a contraceptive? expand_more
This device is not intended to be used as a contraceptive or pregnancy test, nor is it proven to provide any definitive information during pregnancy. Use only as a means to monitor your most fertile stage.
It’s usually not recommended to use ovulation tests as birth control because ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) only identify the most fertile window (up to 72 hours), and sperm can survive in the body up to 5 days.
When ferning can mislead you
Ferning appears at random times. Why? expand_more
Make sure that the saliva sample was taken prior to brushing your teeth, eating, drinking, or smoking. Also, an illness, such as a cold, or some medications may affect the results. All of these factors have an impact on ferning, causing ferning to appear at random times.
Can the OvuScope test give me a false positive? expand_more
Yes, ferning can appear if a saliva sample is taken after eating, drinking, smoking, or taking certain medications.
From our door to yours
How long does shipping / delivery take? expand_more
Ships 1–3 business days from NY and then typically delivered within 5–7 business days later via USPS.
How do I check my order status / tracking? expand_more
Go to https://www.ovuscope.com/trackorder with your order number and billing email address.
Does the OvuScope ship discreetly? expand_more
Yes, at OvuScope we understand your fertility is your own private business! The item comes in a plain brown cardboard box, with a basic shipping label that doesn’t mention ovulation, for your privacy. Also, billing charges are listed under company “Carson” not “OvuScope”.
Do you ship outside of the USA? expand_more
Not yet, but we are working on launching internationally soon. Please sign up for our notification list so you will be the first to know when OvuScope is available to ship in your country!
Reach out to our team
What’s the contact information for OvuScope? expand_more
By Phone: 631-963-5090
By Email: info@ovuscope.com
Still have questions?
Our team is here to help you feel confident, informed, and supported at every step of your fertility journey.