Ovulation: Understanding Egg Release from the Ovary

When an egg cell is about to leave the ovary, it is called ovulation. Ovulation occurs during the menstrual cycle, typically around day 14 in a 28-day cycle. During ovulation, the mature egg cell (also known as an oocyte) is released from one of the ovaries and travels down the fallopian tube. If the egg cell is fertilized by a sperm cell during this time, it can develop into an embryo and eventually a baby. If the egg cell is not fertilized, it will be reabsorbed into the body.