Ovulation typically occurs about midway through the menstrual cycle, around day 14 in a common 28-day cycle. It happens after the follicular phase and before the luteal phase. The exact day can vary significantly depending on the length of the menstrual cycle and individual variations. Ovulation is triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and lasts roughly 16 to 32 hours. In general:
- For a 28-day cycle, ovulation usually occurs around day 14.
- For cycles shorter or longer than 28 days, ovulation generally happens about 14 days before the next period starts.
- The fertile window includes a few days before and the day of ovulation itself, as the egg survives for only 12 to 24 hours after release, while sperm can survive several days.
This means ovulation is most often around the midpoint of the menstrual cycle but can vary widely among individuals.