Ovulation

Definition

Ovulation is the process during a woman's menstrual cycle where a mature egg is released from an ovary into the fallopian tube, making it available for fertilization. This occurs roughly in the middle of the cycle, facilitated by hormonal signals.

Related terms

Menstrual Cycle:

The monthly series of changes a woman's body goes through in preparation for the possibility of pregnancy.

Follicle: stimulating hormone (FSH) - A hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that promotes the formation of ova or sperm.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH):

A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland that triggers ovulation and development of the corpus luteum