What is ovulation?
Ovulation is the central event in a woman's menstrual cycle. It is the time when a mature egg or egg cell is released from one of the ovaries to be transported into the fallopian tube. The fallopian tube is the path to the uterus where it can possibly be fertilized by sperm. Ovulation is normally a one-time event during each menstrual cycle. It is one of the most important times for women who want to get pregnant because the chance of getting pregnant is highest during ovulation.
When do you ovulate?
The time of ovulation can vary but occurs about 14 days before you get your period. Most women have a menstrual cycle that lasts 28-32 days
What happens in the body during ovulation?
Ovulation begins with the maturation of an egg cell in one of the ovaries. When the egg cell is sufficiently mature, the egg cell is released and transported further into the fallopian tube. It is in the fallopian tube that the egg can meet sperm to possibly be fertilized.
Ovulation is primarily triggered by an increase in the hormone LH (luteinizing hormone) in the body. This increase generally occurs 24 to 36 hours before ovulation itself occurs. Once the egg has been released, it can then survive for up to about 24 hours, which means that the window for possible fertilization is relatively short. Assuming fertilization takes place and nothing else happens, the egg will attach to the uterus to further develop into an embryo.
How are hormones affected during ovulation?
During the ovulation phase, it is primarily the hormone LH (luteinizing hormone) that triggers ovulation. LH increases dramatically just before ovulation. The hormone progesterone also begins to increase and prepares the uterine lining to receive a possible fertilized egg.
This hormonal process is essential to ensure that the body is ready for pregnancy if conception occurs. If the egg is not fertilized, the production of progesterone decreases and leads to a new menstrual cycle.
Symptoms and problems during ovulation
It is common for women to experience symptoms and discomfort related to the ovulation phase. These may include a marked increase in the amount of cervical mucus, increased sexual desire, increased sensitivity in the breasts, and possibly mild pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen. This pain, known as mittelschmerz, often occurs on the side where the egg is released.
Not all women experience any symptoms during ovulation and some may be more sensitive than others. It is also possible to confuse ovulation symptoms with PMS symptoms so it is important to follow your own body and menstrual cycle carefully if you are trying to get pregnant and or avoid a possible pregnancy. The ovulation phase is an exciting time in a woman's menstrual cycle and plays a crucial role in reproduction. By understanding ovulation and the processes that occur in the body, you can gain greater insight and thus a better understanding of your health.
