Periods 101 - Understanding Ovulation

Understanding Ovulation

1. What Is Ovulation?

• The egg travels into the fallopian tube.
• It can be fertilized by sperm.
• If not fertilized, it dissolves within about 12–24 hours.

2. When Does Ovulation Happen?

• In a 28-day cycle, it often happens around Day 14.
• In shorter or longer cycles, timing will vary.
• It typically occurs about 14 days before the next period starts, not always on Day 14.

3. Hormones Involved

• FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): Helps mature the egg.
• Estrogen: Rises before ovulation and thickens the uterine lining.
• LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Surges suddenly and triggers the release of the egg.
• Progesterone: Rises after ovulation to support possible pregnancy.

4. Signs of Ovulation

• Clear, stretchy cervical mucus (similar to egg whites)
• Mild lower abdominal pain (called mittelschmerz)
• Slight rise in basal body temperature (after ovulation)
• Increased libido
• Breast tenderness

5. Fertility Window

• Sperm can live in the body for up to 5 days.
• The egg survives for 12–24 hours after release.
• The most fertile days are usually 3 days before ovulation and the day of ovulation.

6. What Happens After Ovulation?

• Progesterone increases.
• The uterine lining prepares for implantation.
• If fertilization occurs, pregnancy begins.
• If not, hormone levels drop and menstruation starts.

7. When Ovulation Does Not Occur

• Stress
• Hormonal imbalances
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Thyroid disorders
• Extreme weight changes

8. Tracking Ovulation

• Monitoring cervical mucus
• Tracking basal body temperature
• Using ovulation predictor kits (LH tests)
• Tracking cycle patterns with apps or calendars

9. Important Notes