when to start taking OPKs?

[squamgirl]

I'm trying to figure out when to start taking OPKs....

Some months I have O'd on CD 14. Some months 18-20. One month last year I O'd on CD 29 (take about a frustrating month!).

I have eleven OPKs left, so I don't want to start too early and run out (I'll buy more if we're not successful this month... but I don't want to buy another box and waste them if we are successful this month). But I also don't want to start testing too late and not get it right.

I'm on CD 11 right now. Should I start testing today and just take the risk that I'll need to buy more or should I wait to start testing?

Thanks!

[Wanting-a-girl]

Cycle day 13 from what I read

Info on OPKs! *UPDATED 7/23/10* - OPK Help - BabyCenter (http://community.babycenter.com/post/a22938887/info_on_opks_updated_72310)

[bigchrista]

Do you get any pre O signs? I get AF like symptoms before O and will start testing then.

does your surge fade in? If it does I would suggest cd 13 if its super neg. then I would skip a day and test again on cd15. If you have a short surge I would suggest testing once a day.

[prayforprincess]

I always check my cm and that gives me some idea as to when to start testing.
I don't get a lot, but when it starts getting clear-ish and less pasty.
As well, I temp. That helps. Usually when my temps stay low for a few days etc. I know o is coming.

I am pretty regular though, o-ing cd14-17. Normally on cd15. I know to start checking opk's cd13.
If I were u I would start on cd12 -- especially if you could o on cd14.
Check for other signs too.

[squamgirl]

bigchrista- I don't get any O signs. As for a surge, I use the clearblue digital testers, so it's either a smiley face or nothing.

prayforprincess- my cm is not reliable right now because of the diet, supps and rephresh. :( But I'm thinking day 12 sounds like a good idea.

Thanks!

[LacePrincess]

Have you tried checking cervical position? I usually start using my OPK's when I see clear CM and my cervix is starting to soften/open. Even if you have trouble checking CP, if you check CM internally there's always some up near the cervix, enough for you to see if it's creamy or clear anyways.

[atomic sagebrush]

I'd start testing sooner rather than later, because you can start Oing earlier on supps. If you O on CD 12, an OPK on CD 13 isn't going to help! ;)

I'd start on CD 10 - haven't seen many O's prior to that!