What physical exam finding is suggestive of ovulation?

The change in cervical mucus consistency is a key indicator suggestive of ovulation. During the menstrual cycle, the consistency of cervical mucus changes in response to hormonal fluctuations, particularly due to estrogen. As ovulation approaches, cervical mucus becomes more abundant, clear, and stretchy, resembling egg whites. This change promotes sperm motility and helps in facilitating fertilization.

In contrast, thick cervical mucus typically indicates a non-fertile phase of the cycle, as it tends to be less conducive to sperm passage. Uterine tenderness can occur for several reasons but is not a direct sign of ovulation. Follicular cysts may appear during the ovulatory phase but are not a reliable indicator of ovulation itself. The distinctive change in cervical mucus consistency around the time of ovulation is a palpable sign that fertility is at its peak, making it the most relevant finding in this context.