[Army_Wife]

Okay, I've decided to attempt charting this cycle. AF just arrived this afternoon. So do I start temping tomorrow morning???

What other pointers do you have for a newbie? I've never done this before, but my last two cycles have been so wonky from coming off the pill, I'd like to start charting to see if and when I O.

Thanks!

[CandaceDianne]

I just came off the pill last cycle too. I just bought a copy of Taking Charge of Your Fertility (TCOYF) from Craigslist, but you can purchase it at any bookstore ($29 or so) OR check it out at your local library (may be a waiting list though...its THAT popular). I bought mine for $10 from Craigslist. Women rave about this book...I cant tell you much more as I literally just got my book in today, so its at home.
Anyway, I would recommend you start starting temping tomorrow and you can log it on FF (Ovulation Calendar and Ovulation Chart - Fertility Charting. Its a FREE site you can log in symptoms, temps, moods, tests, etc.... GREAT tool! Temp the same time each morning, even on the weekends. FF has a lot of answers to many questions you may have about temping and such, but the girls on here are SUPER helpful too. Since you plan to temp, try to purchase an $8 BBT (thats how much mine was at Walmart). Look at my two charts....my first one is with a regular digital and this cycle is with a BBT. It really does make a huge difference in your overall pattern.
Check your CP the same time each day as well, as it will change throughout the course of the day. I do check mine throughout the day, but I only record what my CP is at during one period of the day.
My last piece of advice is to NOT stress yourself out (I did my first cycle). I am trying to approach this cycle with calmness and ease, and its helped the days go faster.
GL and I hope your charting days are short!

[Coley]

YAY Candace!!! You gave some fantastic advice!!!

I couldn't have said it any better myself!!!

[Tammyms]

Holy, I was all ready to get in here and post something, but I'm just going to say Candace!

[Admin-pattyandthemoos]

Thank you Candace for the great post.

I agree. I would start temping tomorrow. Your chart may be a little wacky since you are coming off the pill but charting will really help. Make sure you temp at the same time before you get out of bed.

I would also read through our charting school section. (It is a work in progress but it has answers to some of the common questions.) And JM also has some good charting articles too.

Welcome to the charting board! I hope you get your bfp quickly!