Ovulating is the process during the female menstrual cycle when an ovary releases a mature egg (ovum). This egg is then available to be fertilized by sperm, which can lead to pregnancy. Ovulation typically occurs about midway through the menstrual cycle, around day 14 in a 28-day cycle, but this timing can vary among individuals

. Here are key points about ovulation:

• It happens once in each menstrual cycle, usually about 12 to 16 days before the next period starts

• Hormonal changes, especially a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), trigger the ovary to release the egg

• After release, the egg travels down the fallopian tube and can be fertilized for about 12 to 24 hours

• Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so conception is possible if intercourse occurs in the days leading up to and including ovulation

• If the egg is not fertilized, it disintegrates, and the uterine lining is shed during menstruation

Ovulation is a critical phase for fertility and pregnancy planning, and it can be tracked by hormonal tests, changes in cervical mucus, basal body temperature, or ovulation predictor kits