Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm. The egg survives 12–24 hours; sperm can survive up to 5 days.
Fertile Window
The fertile window spans about 6 days: 5 days before ovulation + the day of ovulation itself. This is when conception is most likely.
Signs of Ovulation
- Rise in basal body temperature (0.5–1°F)
- Change in cervical mucus (clear, slippery, egg-white consistency)
- Mild pelvic pain (mittelschmerz)
- Positive ovulation predictor kit (OPK) — detects LH surge