Ovulation is: what you need to know

Ovulation is not just a medical term, but a part of our life. It is the body’s response to the question of whether we are ready to give birth to a new life. But what is ovulation, really? How does it happen, and why is it necessary? Let’s figure it out together in our article.

What is ovulation in simple words

Ovulation is pure magic. The moment a mature egg leaves the ovary and travels down the fallopian tube to meet the sperm. It’s unique in its own way because it is the beginning of life. But even if pregnancy is not in your plans right now , understanding this amazing process will help you better understand your female body.

How does ovulation occur?

Let’s talk about this process from a physiological point of view. The menstrual cycle includes several main stages:

• Proliferative phase. At the beginning of the cycle, follicles begin to prepare in the ovaries, from which one is eventually “selected” – “hungry” for an egg.
• Ovulation. When the level of luteinizing hormone (LH) reaches its maximum, the follicle breaks through and the egg itself comes out. Here it is – the absolutely most important moment!
• Secretory phase. After ovulation, the corpus luteum forms at the site of the ruptured follicle, producing progesterone. This important chemical element exists only to prepare your body for its regular routine – waiting for pregnancy.

Signs of ovulation: how to recognize?

Ovulation is not only an internal process. Our body gives us clues that can be noticed if you pay attention. Here are the main signs:

1. Increased discharge. The ovulation process is accompanied by liquid and viscous discharges that resemble egg whites, their quantity increases. This secretion has a dense consistency and creates more favorable conditions for the movement of spermatozoa to the egg.
2. Mild abdominal pain. In some cases, women may experience mild pain or discomfort in the area of one of the ovaries where ovulation occurs. This phenomenon is called “ovulatory syndrome.”
3. Increased libido. Nature is wise – during ovulation, many women notice an increase in sexual desire. This is a natural way to increase the chances of pregnancy.
4. Changes in basal temperature. After ovulation, basal temperature fluctuations increase by 0.3 to 0.5 degrees, which is due to the strength of the progesterone secretion.
5. Breast tenderness due to hormonal changes or swelling of the mammary glands.

Why is it important to understand the ovulation process?

Determining the exact moment of conception becomes easier if a woman knows what days she ovulates. Contraception method : understanding your ovulation cycle can help in controlling the conception of children. However, it is worth remembering that this method is not completely reliable and it is recommended to also use additional methods of protection (see our article on effective methods of contraception). It plays an important role in taking care of your health and understanding the fact that your body really works. If a woman notices deviations in the menstrual cycle, it is worth making an appointment with a gynecologist.

How to Track?

Let’s look at several basic methods:

• Calendar method. The idea is that ovulation usually occurs on the 14th day of the cycle after the onset of menstruation.
• You can use tests (available at any pharmacy ) that analyze the level of luteinizing hormone in the urine. It increases immediately before ovulation.
• Basal temperature measurement method. Temperature should be measured in the morning, before getting out of bed. After ovulation, it usually increases.
• Observe the discharge, which becomes more abundant and viscous during the days of ovulation.
• Menstrual cycle tracking apps: For example, the Selin app helps you track ovulation, monitor your fertile days, and remind you of important events in your cycle.

Pregnancy planning

To increase a couple’s chances of successful conception, it is important to not only know the days of ovulation, but also follow some useful tips. Regular sex: To increase the chances of conception, experts recommend having sex every 2-3 days during your fertile window (5 days before ovulation and 1 day after). Mom’s health is the key to baby’s health: proper nutrition, reduced stress, and an active lifestyle with regular exercise will help increase your chances of conception. Reduce stress: Stress can negatively affect hormonal balance and make it difficult to plan a pregnancy. Try to use your free time effectively and find harmony in your life. For more information on planning a pregnancy, check out our fertility guide .

When to see a doctor?

If a woman aged 35+ has been trying to get pregnant for more than 6 months, but still cannot get the coveted two stripes, we recommend that you consult a gynecologist. You should also consult a doctor if you notice the following symptoms : irregular cycle, severe pain during  menstruation.

Myths and facts

There are many myths about ovulation. Let’s figure out what’s true and what’s not.

Myth 1. Ovulation occurs strictly on the 14th day of the cycle. This is not always the case. Women with a regular cycle can indeed ovulate in the middle of the cycle – in the middle of 28 days. But when the cycle is shorter or longer, this point shifts. For example, when the cycle is 35 days, ovulation will be on the 21st day.

Myth 2. Ovulation occurs every month. Not all women have a regular ovulation cycle every month. Factors that lead to missed periods include stress, hormonal problems, thyroid disease, or polycystic ovary syndrome. This results in a missed uterine cycle, which means that the egg simply does not mature.

Myth 3. Ovulation can only be determined by the calendar. Calendar monitoring is only one option. Combined monitoring, using ovulation tests, as well as monitoring discharge and measuring basal body temperature, can give a more accurate answer.

Myth 4. Ovulation is only for pregnancy planning. Ovulation plays a big role for those who are planning a child. However, this is not true. Tracking ovulation can help you understand how healthy your body is in general, as it allows you to determine the regular functioning of the system. This information can be used to identify the causes of hormonal disruptions and other complications of its work.

Conclusion

Ovulation is an important stage for understanding yourself and planning a pregnancy. Knowing the processes occurring in the body at this moment will be useful for every woman. Want to learn more about your body? Download the Selin app , where you will find answers to all your questions. And if you liked the article, do not forget to subscribe to our blog updates so as not to miss new articles! In the meantime, read the material on the topic of pregnancy planning . Take care of yourself and your health!