Ovulation is a phase in the menstrual cycle where the ovary releases an egg (ovum) . It usually happens around day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle. The process of ovulation begins when the hypothalamus (a part of the brain) releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which causes the pituitary gland (a gland in the brain) to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) . The LH surge triggers the eggs release, which usually happens around day 14, in the 28 to 36 hours after the LH surge. Once an egg leaves the ovary, it travels down the fallopian tube where it waits to be fertilized by sperm. If the egg is not fertilized, it disintegrates, and the uterine lining is shed during the period.

During ovulation, some people may experience ovulation pain or mittelschmerz, which is cramping or pelvic pain that happens around ovulation. This pain is typically felt in the lower abdomen and pelvis, in the middle or on one side, and may happen when an egg bursts from a follicle. Some people may also notice changes in their cervical mucus or discharge during ovulation.

Knowing when ovulation occurs is important for those trying to conceive or prevent pregnancy. There are methods to track ovulation, such as using a calendar, checking cervical mucus, or using an ovulation predictor kit. Its important to note that the exact timing of ovulation varies from person to person and even from cycle to cycle.