Ovulation typically lasts about 12 to 24 hours each month. During this time, an egg is released from the ovary and is available to be fertilized. If the egg is not fertilized within this window, it dies and is absorbed or shed by the body
. Although ovulation itself is a short event, the fertile window-the days when pregnancy is possible-extends beyond just the day of ovulation. This fertile window includes the five days leading up to ovulation plus the day of ovulation, because sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days
. In summary:
- Ovulation lasts about 12 to 24 hours.
- The fertile window is about 6 days: 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation.
- Conception is most likely during this fertile window, not just on the day of ovulation
