ovulaation

Ovulaation, commonly referred to as ovulation, is the release of a mature oocyte (egg) from a ovarian follicle during the menstrual cycle. It typically occurs mid-cycle, about 12 to 16 days before the start of the next period in a normal 28-day cycle, but the exact day can vary between individuals and cycles. The egg is released into the nearby fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm.

The process is regulated by hormones coordinated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, each containing an immature egg. Rising estrogen from the developing follicle leads to a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers the rupture of the dominant follicle and release of the egg. After ovulation, the remnant of the follicle forms the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to prepare the lining of the uterus for potential implantation.

Eggs are viable for about 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, while sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to several days. Consequently, the most fertile period typically spans five days before ovulation and about one day after.

Signs of ovulation can include mild abdominal discomfort (mittelschmerz), changes in cervical mucus becoming clear and stretchy, and a slight rise in basal body temperature after ovulation. Variations occur; not all cycles include ovulation. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hypothalamic dysfunction can disrupt ovulation, influencing fertility and menstrual regularity.