Ovulation typically lasts about 12 to 24 hours. This is the time during which the egg, once released from the ovary, remains viable for fertilization as it travels through the fallopian tube
. The actual release of the egg (the moment of ovulation) is instantaneous, but the entire ovulation process, including the hormonal changes leading up to and following the release, can take around 36 hours
. Although ovulation itself is brief, the fertile window extends beyond this because sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to 5 to 6 days. Therefore, conception can occur during the five days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation itself
. In summary:
- Ovulation lasts about 12 to 24 hours (egg viability)
- The whole ovulation process takes roughly 36 hours including hormonal activity
- Fertility window spans about 6 days due to sperm longevity
This timing usually occurs about 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period in a typical 28-day cycle but can vary among individuals
