Ovulation: The Monthly Release of an Egg

What Happens During Ovulation

Each month, one ovary releases a mature egg (ovum) into the fallopian tube. This process, called ovulation, typically occurs around day 14 of a 28-day cycle but varies among women and cycles.

Journey of the Egg

1. Release: The ovarian follicle ruptures, expelling the ovum.
2. Transport: Fimbriae sweep the egg into the fallopian tube.
3. Fertilization window: The egg remains viable for 12–24 hours. Sperm can survive 3–5 days in the female tract.
4. Outcome:
   • If fertilized: Zygote travels to uterus for implantation.
   • If not fertilized: Egg disintegrates and is absorbed; menstruation follows ~14 days later.

Key Points

• Ovulation is the only time pregnancy can occur.
• Signs include mittelschmerz (mid-cycle pain), cervical mucus changes, and basal body temperature rise.
• Hormonal birth control suppresses ovulation.

Yes, a woman's egg "comes out" of the ovary during ovulation—it enters the reproductive tract, not the external body.