WANT TO BE PREGNANT? EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OVULATION

Dr. Claude Allouche, Gynecologist Ahuza Clinic, Raanana
058 726 02 64

What is Ovulation? Ovulation english

Ovulation is the moment when the ovary releases an egg, essential for reproduction. This egg becomes an embryo after fertilization by a sperm cell.

The Journey of the Egg

A few hours after release, the egg begins its journey toward the uterus, aided by the cilia in the fallopian tubes. Here, it may meet a sperm for fertilization.

Signs of Ovulation

Ovulation manifests differently in every woman, and can sometimes be subtle. Signs include breast tenderness, lateral pelvic pain (which may or may not be painful), and increased vaginal discharge that is clear and stretchy.

These signs of ovulation can be:

  • Breast tenderness,
  • Lateral pelvic pain that can last from a few hours to a few days. It varies from woman to woman and even from cycle to cycle. This pain is believed to come from the release of the egg through the ovarian membrane.
  • Increased vaginal discharge due to cervical mucus, which becomes more abundant, clear, and stretchy during ovulation.

Identifying Ovulation

Some women ovulate without noticeable signs. They may use ovulation tests or track their basal body temperature to pinpoint the exact moment of ovulation.

Advice: Don’t Wait Too Long!

The ideal age for childbearing is before 30. After that, the quality of the eggs decreases significantly. So, if you want a baby, don't let time slip away!

Timing of Ovulation

Ovulation generally occurs on the 14th day before the next period in a 28-day cycle.
However, not all women have the same cycle length. For a woman with a 20-day cycle, ovulation will occur on day 6, and for a 35-day cycle, ovulation happens on day 21.

Fertility Window

The egg lives for about 24 hours after being released, but the fertile window lasts longer—up to 3 to 4 days before ovulation and ending the day after ovulation. Considering sperm can live for 2 to 4 days, this creates a window of opportunity for conception.

Conception - Not So Simple

Stopping contraception doesn't guarantee immediate pregnancy. Many factors affect the processes of ovulation and fertilization, and fertility varies between couples. Patience is key!

Consultation After 12 to 18 Months

If pregnancy hasn’t occurred after 18 months of trying, consider consulting a doctor. Until then, enjoy your time together as a couple!