First of all, what is ovulation?
The female body is cyclical, much like the seasons. Each month, a new cycle begins on the first day of menstruation (winter), followed by the pre-ovulatory (spring), ovulatory (summer), and post-ovulatory (fall) phases.
Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovaries and travels to the fallopian tubes, ready to be fertilized. This is the peak fertility period of the menstrual cycle.
To help you better understand this natural process, here are 4 essential facts about ovulation that you absolutely must know.
1. Ovulation does not always occur on the 14th day
Contrary to popular belief (and cycle tracking apps), ovulation does not always occur on day 14.
In reality, the pre-ovulatory phase , which precedes ovulation, varies greatly from one woman to another. It can be influenced by several factors such as stress, sleep, medication or diet.
This is why it is a misconception that all women ovulate on day 14 of a 28-day cycle.
2. There is only one ovulation per cycle
Although several eggs are being prepared behind the scenes, only one is usually released per cycle. This process lasts approximately 24 hours.
Double ovulation (responsible for the conception of fraternal twins) can occur, but this is rare. You cannot ovulate at two separate times in the same cycle.
3. Ovulation is not only useful for conception
Ovulation is much more than just a reproductive process! It triggers a hormonal cascade that benefits your overall health.
Estrogen and progesterone positively influence your bones, heart, brain, skin, and even your mood.
“ Women benefit from 35 to 40 years of ovulatory cycles, not only for fertility, but also to prevent osteoporosis, stroke, dementia, heart disease, and breast cancer .” – Jerilynn Prior
4. Your body tells you when ovulation is approaching
It's not possible to predict exactly when you'll ovulate, but your body is sending you fertile signals !
Thanks to the symptothermal method, you can learn to identify this famous “fertile window”:
- Cervical mucus : becomes clear, stringy, and very slippery, like egg white.
- Basal temperature : increases after ovulation under the effect of progesterone.
- Cervix : Becomes softer, open, and lower as it prepares to allow sperm to pass through.
In short, understanding your ovulation means understanding your body, your health, and your fertility. By educating yourself and observing the signs of your cycle, you become an active participant in your own well-being.
