What Is Ovulation?
Ovulation is the release of a mature egg from the ovary, typically occurring once per menstrual cycle. It marks the only time during a cycle when pregnancy is possible. The egg survives for just 12–24 hours after release, but sperm can live in the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days — making the 5 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation the fertile window.
When Does Ovulation Occur?
In a standard 28-day cycle, ovulation typically occurs around day 14. However, this varies significantly between women and even between cycles in the same woman. The key is that ovulation occurs approximately 14 days before the next expected period (the luteal phase is relatively constant at 14 days), regardless of cycle length.
Signs of Ovulation
Common physical signs include: a change in cervical mucus (becomes clearer and more stretchy, like raw egg white); a slight rise in basal body temperature (0.2–0.5°C) after ovulation; mild one-sided pelvic pain (mittelschmerz); and increased libido. Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) detect the LH surge that precedes ovulation by 24–36 hours.