Ovulation is the release of the mature egg. With oestrogen still rising, this triggers a surge in luteinising hormone (an LH surge). The dominant follicle ruptures and releases the mature egg.
What happens to the mature egg during ovulation?
The mature egg travels to the fallopian tube and this is the process that is known as ovulation. This is an important part of the cycle if you are trying to get pregnant. You simply cannot conceive without ovulating.
The fertile window
In each cycle, there is a ‘fertile window’. This is the day the egg is released (ovulation) as well as the days in the run-up to it. Sperm can live up to 5 days in the body, so having sex during this window is the very core concept of trying to get pregnant.
Although the fertile window can take place over almost a week, ovulation only happens over 24 hours. So when you see people onscreen frustrated they missed their window to make a baby, this is why! They have to wait until the next cycle to try again.
How do I know I’m ovulating?
There are a few signs to look out for. Things like basal body temperature (BBT), the position and firmness of the cervix as well as changes in the cervical mucus. I have a section in my book that covers this, if you’d like to read more.
Instagram accounts that raise awareness of fertility tracking methods:
It is also not uncommon to experience ovulation pain. You may feel it on one side, whichever ovary is releasing the egg!
How do you feel during this phase of the cycle?
If you feel friskier during this time, you are not alone. This is the part of your cycle where you’re most fertile, so it’s in your body’s best interest to feel horny! Although sexual urges can happen at any point in the cycle, many will see an increase when their body is getting ready to ovulate.
A lot of us feel more social during this time and generally just good about ourselves! Interestingly enough, a 2010 study in the Journal of Consumer Research found that people are more likely to buy items that help themselves feel more attractive (clothes, makeup etc) during this time too.
Ovulation Station playlist
For that time of the month where you’re feeling more ‘social’.