Ovulation is the release of eggs from the ovaries in women, which occurs when the ovarian follicles rupture and release the secondary oocyte ovarian cells
. This process takes place about midway through the menstrual cycle, after the follicular phase, and typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle
. After ovulation, the egg is available to be fertilized by sperm during the luteal phase
. During ovulation, a mature egg is released from the ovary and moves down the fallopian tube towards the uterus
. The uterine lining (endometrium) is thickened to receive a fertilized egg. If no conception occurs, the uterine lining and the egg will be shed during menstruation
. Ovulation can be predicted using various methods, such as:
- Calendar methods: Tracking the menstrual cycle and counting from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP) can help determine the most fertile phase, which is usually between days 10 to 18 of a 28-day cycle
- Cervical mucus: Changes in cervical mucus texture and consistency can indicate when ovulation is approaching
- Basal thermometers: These devices track a rise in body temperature, which signals that ovulation has occurred
- Ovulation predictor kits: These kits work by measuring the level of luteinizing hormone (LH) in a woman's urine. A positive result indicates that ovulation is about to occur, usually within 36 hours
Some women may experience symptoms of ovulation, such as:
- Vaginal discharge or mucus that is slick and slippery (like egg white)
- Abdominal pain, often on one side of the tummy
- Premenstrual symptoms, such as breast enlargement and tenderness, abdominal bloating, and moodiness
If a woman is not ovulating regularly, there are treatments like tablets and injections that can increase the hormones that control ovulation, such as progesterone or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
