Ovulation typically occurs about once a month for people with regular menstrual cycles, and the fertile window is roughly the day or two before and the day of ovulation. Key points
- Frequency: Most women with regular cycles ovulate once per cycle. Some individuals may have variations, but a single dominant ovulation event per cycle is standard for a typical 28-day cycle.
- Timing within the cycle: In a standard 28-day cycle, ovulation usually occurs around day 14, with the fertile window spanning roughly days 10–16. If cycle length differs, ovulation generally occurs about 10–16 days before the next period, though exact timing varies by person.
- Duration of fertility: The egg is viable for about 12–24 hours after release, while sperm can survive in the reproductive tract for several days, extending the fertile window a bit beyond ovulation itself.
- Variability: Cycle length varies widely among individuals (roughly 23–35 days is common). Some people may ovulate earlier or later in their cycle from month to month, and occasional anovulatory cycles can occur, especially with certain conditions or life stages.
- Exceptions: There are reports and studies suggesting multiple ovulations can occur in a single cycle for some individuals, but this is not the typical pattern for most people.
If you want a precise estimate for your own cycle, you can track:
- Period start dates over several months to establish your average cycle length.
- Physical signs (basal body temperature, cervical mucus changes) or use ovulation predictor tests to time intercourse or conception attempts.
- If your cycles are irregular, or you’re not seeing ovulation for several months, consult a healthcare provider to assess possible causes such as hormonal imbalances or conditions like PCOS.
