Ovulate

Ovulation

Ovulation is a crucial phase in the female reproductive cycle, during which a mature ovarian follicle releases an egg (oocyte) into the fallopian tube. This process is essential for reproduction, as it allows for the possibility of fertilization by sperm. Understanding ovulation is important for both natural conception and assisted reproductive technologies.

Physiology of Ovulation

Ovulation is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones, primarily involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries. The process can be divided into several stages:

Follicular Phase

The follicular phase begins on the first day of menstruation and continues until ovulation. During this phase, the pituitary gland secretes FSH, which stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles. Typically, one follicle becomes dominant and continues to mature, while others regress.

Ovulatory Phase

The ovulatory phase is characterized by a surge in LH, triggered by rising estrogen levels from the dominant follicle. This LH surge induces the final maturation of the oocyte and weakens the follicular wall, leading to the release of the egg approximately 24-36 hours later.

Luteal Phase

After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the Corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone. This hormone prepares the endometrium for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, leading to a decrease in progesterone and the onset of menstruation.

Signs and Symptoms of Ovulation

Women may experience various signs and symptoms during ovulation, including:

• Mittelschmerz: A mild pain or cramping on one side of the abdomen.
• Changes in cervical mucus: Mucus becomes clearer, stretchier, and more slippery, resembling raw egg whites.
• Increased basal body temperature: A slight rise in basal body temperature can be detected after ovulation.
• Heightened sense of smell: Some women report an increased sensitivity to smells.

Clinical Significance

Understanding ovulation is important for:

• Fertility awareness: Tracking ovulation can help in planning or avoiding pregnancy.
• Diagnosis of reproductive disorders: Irregular or absent ovulation can indicate conditions such as PCOS or Hypothalamic amenorrhea.
• Assisted reproductive technologies: Ovulation induction is a common procedure in treatments like IVF.

Also see

• Menstrual cycle
• Fertilization
• Hormonal contraception
• Reproductive endocrinology