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Ovulation is a central event in the female reproductive cycle and plays a crucial role in fertility. It is the process by which a mature egg is released from the ovary and becomes available for fertilization by a sperm. For women trying to conceive, understanding the timing and signs of ovulation is essential.

Similarly, for those aiming to prevent pregnancy naturally or manage hormonal health, awareness of ovulation is equally important. Ovulation reflects the coordination of several hormonal changes and marks the most fertile period in a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Definition

Ovulation is defined as the release of a mature egg (ovum) from one of the ovaries during each menstrual cycle. This process is controlled by a delicate balance of reproductive hormones, primarily luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. When a dominant follicle in the ovary matures, a sudden surge in LH triggers the follicle to rupture and release the egg.

The egg is then captured by the nearby fallopian tube, where it remains viable for fertilization for about 12 to 24 hours. If fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote may implant in the uterus and initiate pregnancy. If the egg is not fertilized, it disintegrates, and the cycle continues with the shedding of the uterine lining (menstruation).

When Does Ovulation Occur?

The timing of ovulation varies from woman to woman and can also change from cycle to cycle, depending on individual health and hormonal balance. However, some general patterns apply:

Midpoint of the Menstrual Cycle

In women with a regular 28-day cycle, ovulation typically occurs around day 14, counting from the first day of menstruation. This is considered the midpoint of the cycle.

14 Days Before the Next Period

A more accurate way to estimate ovulation is to subtract 14 days from the expected date of the next menstrual period, as the luteal phase (the time between ovulation and the next period) is usually consistent and lasts about 14 days in most women.

For example:

• In a 30-day cycle, ovulation likely occurs around day 16.
• In a 26-day cycle, ovulation may occur around day 12.
• In a 35-day cycle, ovulation might happen around day 21.

Tracking Ovulation

Ovulation can be predicted or confirmed by several methods:

• Calendar method, based on cycle length.
• Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) that detect LH surge.
• Basal body temperature charting.
• Ultrasound (in clinical settings) to monitor follicular development.

How Many Hours Does Ovulation Last?

Ovulation itself is a short and precise biological event. The actual release of the egg from the ovary occurs within a matter of minutes to a few hours. However, when people refer to “how long ovulation lasts,” they often mean the fertile window or the time during which the egg remains viable for fertilization after it is released.

Duration of Egg Viability After Ovulation

Once the mature egg is released, it survives for approximately 12 to 24 hours in the fallopian tube. This is the only time during the cycle when fertilization can naturally occur.

If the egg is not fertilized within this time, it disintegrates and is absorbed by the body.

Fertile Window Around Ovulation

Although the egg is viable for only 12–24 hours, sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days. Therefore, the fertile window is considered to be about 6 days: 5 days before ovulation + the day of ovulation.

How Do I Know I’m Ovulating?

Ovulation is the phase when your body releases a mature egg, and it often comes with noticeable physical and hormonal changes.

While these signs may vary from woman to woman, several common indicators can help you know when ovulation is occurring.

1. Changes in Cervical Mucus

Around ovulation, your vaginal discharge becomes clear, stretchy, and slippery, similar to raw egg whites. This type of mucus helps sperm travel more easily through the cervix.

2. Slight Rise in Basal Body Temperature (BBT)

After ovulation, progesterone levels increase and cause a slight rise (0.5°F or 0.3°C) in your body’s resting temperature.

Tracking your BBT daily (first thing in the morning) can help detect this shift over time.

3. LH Surge (Luteinizing Hormone)

A sudden increase in LH triggers ovulation. This surge happens about 24 to 36 hours before the egg is released. You can detect it using ovulation predictor kits (OPKs), which test urine for LH levels.

4. Mild Pelvic or Abdominal Pain (Mittelschmerz)

Some women feel a sharp or dull ache on one side of the lower abdomen during ovulation. This is caused by the rupture of the follicle releasing the egg.

5. Increased Sexual Desire

Hormonal changes around ovulation can lead to a temporary increase in libido or sexual arousal.

6. Breast Tenderness

The hormonal shift, especially the rise in progesterone after ovulation, can cause mild soreness or sensitivity in the breasts.

7. Heightened Senses

Some women report improved sense of smell, taste, or vision during ovulation due to increased estrogen levels.

8. Changes in Cervix Position

During ovulation, the cervix may become softer, higher, and more open. This can be felt with regular internal self-examinations.