Data Source and Methodology
Authoritative references:
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). “Your Menstrual Cycle.” Reviewed 2022. acog.org/womens-health/faqs/your-menstrual-cycle
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Fertility Awareness-Based Methods.” Updated 2023. cdc.gov/contraception/about/fertility-awareness.html
Tutti i calcoli si basano rigorosamente sulle formule e sui dati forniti da questa fonte.
The Formula Explained
1) Next period start: D_next = D_LMP + CL
2) Period window: [D_next, D_next + (PL - 1)]
3) Ovulation (estimate): O = D_next - 14
4) Fertile window: [O - 5, O + 1]
5) With cycle variation ±v: D_next ∈ [D_LMP + (CL - v), D_LMP + (CL + v)]
Where D_LMP is the first day of your last menstrual period, CL is your average cycle length in days, PL is your typical period length, and v is the cycle variation you choose to account for early/late shifts.
Glossary of Variables
- LMP (Last Menstrual Period)
- The first day of your last period.
- Average cycle length (CL)
- Number of days from day 1 of one period to day 1 of the next (typical range: 21–35 days).
- Period length (PL)
- Typical number of days you bleed during a period (often 3–7 days).
- Cycle variation (v)
- Optional ± days to model early or late cycles; increases the output ranges.
- Next period start (D_next)
- The predicted date your next period begins.
- Ovulation (O)
- Estimated as 14 days before the next predicted period start.
- Fertile window
- The 6-day interval: 5 days before ovulation through 1 day after.
How It Works: A Step-by-Step Example
Suppose your LMP was March 3, 2025, your average cycle length is 30 days, your period lasts 5 days, and you choose a cycle variation of ±2 days.
- Next period start: D_next = March 3 + 30 = April 2, 2025. With ±2, range is March 31–April 4.
- Period window: April 2–April 6, 2025. With range, March 31–April 4 start, each lasting 5 days.
- Ovulation: O = D_next − 14 = March 19, 2025. With ±2, range March 17–March 21.
- Fertile window: March 14–March 20, 2025 (range: March 12–March 22).
Note: These are calendar-based estimates that can shift with stress, illness, medication, or life changes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How accurate is this period calculator?
It is most accurate for regular cycles using a representative average cycle length. Variability and health factors can shift dates.
Why is ovulation placed 14 days before my period?
The luteal phase (ovulation to next period) averages around 14 days for many people, which underpins calendar-based estimates.
What if I do not remember my exact LMP?
Use your best estimate and consider a larger cycle variation to widen the result ranges.
Can this replace medical advice or contraception?
No. This tool is for education only. Consult a clinician for diagnosis, treatment, or contraception guidance.
How many future cycles can I view?
The calculator shows the next six predicted starts. You can adjust inputs to see how results change.
Should I track symptoms as well?
Tracking symptoms (e.g., cervical mucus, basal body temperature) may improve personal accuracy but is outside this simple calendar model.