Did you know that your cycle is divided into four phases? And that the phase during which you´re fertile is called the Ovulation Phase? Read here how Ovulation works, which hormones are involved, and what and how long the Fertile Window is.
How Ovulation works
The 3rd phase of the menstrual cycle is the Ovulation Phase. During this phase, one of the follicles ruptures and releases an egg. The egg then travels from one of your ovaries, either the left or right, into the fallopian tube. Due to the movement of the cilia lining inside the fallopian tube, the egg is transported towards the uterus. This process is called ovulation.
During this time of the month, the cervix opens, and your cervical mucus becomes more liquid. This allows sperm to enter the fallopian tubes and potentially fertilize the egg.
If the released egg isn´t fertilized within 12-24 hours after its release, it dies.
When does Ovulation start?
It’s said that ovulation occurs on the 14th day of the menstrual cycle. Of course, the exact timing of ovulation depends on the length of each menstrual cycle.
When are the fertile days in the menstrual cycle?
The fertile days, or the time when you can conceive during the menstrual cycle, begin roughly 4 to 5 days before ovulation and last until 12-24 hours after.
Sperm can survive in the vagina for up to 7 days. If you have unprotected sex 4 to 5 days before ovulation, the sperm can still fertilize the egg when it’s released.
There are some significant symptoms that you can feel during that time!
If you want to know more about your body or lifestyle subjects in general, check out the other blog posts.