Ovulation Frequency: Understanding When You Release an Egg

Typically, one mature ovum is released during each menstrual cycle. This release, known as ovulation, occurs approximately 14 days before the start of the next period (for individuals with a 28-day menstrual cycle). During the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, the ovaries develop and mature a cohort of follicles. Dominant follicles produce increasing levels of estrogen, initiating changes that prepare the uterine lining for implantation of a fertilized ovum.

Once the dominant follicle reaches maturity, a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers ovulation, causing the release of the ovum from the ovary. The ovum then travels through the fallopian tube towards the uterus, where it can be fertilized by sperm. The timing of ovulation in the menstrual cycle is crucial for achieving conception, as it is the period when the ovum is available for fertilization.