What Is Ovulation?

The menstrual cycle usually repeats every 21 to 35 days and typically lasts 28 days. Ovulation occurs around the middle of the cycle. During ovulation, women may notice certain symptoms, although not every month. Because ovulation and pregnancy can occur during this time, it is important to be aware of this part of the cycle.

What are the symptoms of ovulation?

Ovulation symptoms vary from person to person, but several of the following are usually seen;

• Increased vaginal discharge,
• Breast tenderness,
• Increased sex drive,
• Abdominal pain or discomfort in some women,
• Spotting and bleeding in some women,
• Opening of the cervix,
• Softening of the cervix,
• Sensitivity to smells or tastes,
• Abdominal bloating.

When does ovulation start in women?

Ovulation occurs 14 days before the start of the next period. To calculate it correctly, subtract 14 from the number of days between two periods.

• In women with a 28-day cycle, ovulation occurs on day 14, counting back from the first day of the next period.
• In people with a 30-day cycle, ovulation falls on day 16.
• Someone with a 35-day cycle should calculate 35 − 14 = 21. To become pregnant, she should have intercourse on day 21.

However, keep in mind that the egg can survive for about 12 to 24 hours in the fallopian tubes, and sperm, the male reproductive cells, can survive in a woman's body for about 4 to 5 days. If sperm fertilizes the egg during this time, pregnancy occurs. As a result, intercourse does not need to take place exactly on the day of ovulation to become pregnant; it can take place before or after this day. If the egg is not fertilized, the thickened uterine lining is no longer needed and is shed from the body with the period.

What is ovulation calculation?

Methods that help determine on which dates pregnancy is possible are called ovulation calculation, and this calculation is very important for those who want to become pregnant, because it allows couples to increase their chances of conceiving by having intercourse at the right time.

Remember that ovulation calculation is not an effective method of preventing pregnancy. If you are not planning a pregnancy, you should talk to an obstetrician-gynecologist to choose a reliable and effective method of contraception.