when ovulation occurs

Ovulation typically occurs about 12 to 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period. In an average 28-day menstrual cycle, this usually happens around day 14. The exact timing can vary depending on the length of a woman's menstrual cycle, which can range from 21 to 35 days, and ovulation is generally about 14 days before the next period regardless of cycle length. Ovulation is the process where a mature egg is released from the ovary and travels through the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm. The egg survives for about 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, while sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days, making the days around ovulation the most fertile period for conception. The "fertile window" includes the few days before ovulation and the day of ovulation itself, roughly 5-6 days in total, with the highest chance for pregnancy in the 2-3 days leading up to and including the day of ovulation. Signs of ovulation can include changes in cervical mucus, a slight rise in basal body temperature, and mild abdominal cramping.