What is ovulation?

What is ovulation?

The menstrual cycle phase known as ovulation is when your ovary releases an egg (ovum). Once an egg has left your ovary, it travels via your fallopian tube and sits there until sperm fertilizes it. It takes place on day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle, on average.

Ovulation and your menstrual cycle

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is released by your hypothalamus, a portion of your brain, to start the ovulation process. Your brain’s pituitary gland secretes follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in response to GnRH.

FSH induces follicles (tiny sacs of fluid in your ovaries that contain a developing egg) in one ovary to start maturing between days six and 14 of your menstrual cycle. Only one of the growing follicles produces an egg that is fully developed around days 10 to 14 of the cycle. The ovary releases this egg on day 14 of the menstrual cycle as a result of an abrupt rise in LH. That is ovulation. The elevation in progesterone following ovulation aids in preparing your uterus for pregnancy.

When does ovulation occur?

Ovulation takes place roughly 14 days before the start of your subsequent menstrual period in a typical 28-day menstrual cycle. Your cycle length may be longer or shorter depending on the precise timing. Using a calendar or a phone app, you might find it useful to keep tabs on your menstrual cycle.

This can assist you in figuring out the best time for ovulation. Regardless of how long their overall cycle is, the majority of people experience their first period 14 to 16 days following ovulation.