Ovulation is the release of an egg from among the ovaries. It often takes place about midway through the menstrual cycle, although the precise timing might vary.
In preparation for ovulation, the lining of the uterus, or endometrium, thickens. The pituitary gland in the brain stimulates among the ovaries to release an egg. The wall of the ovarian roots ruptures at the surface of the ovary. The egg is launched.
Finger-like structures called fimbriae sweep the egg into the neighboring fallopian tube. The egg takes a trip through the fallopian tube, moved in part by contractions in the fallopian tube walls. Here in the fallopian tube, the egg might be fertilized by a sperm.
If the egg is fertilized, the egg and sperm unify to form a one-celled entity called a zygote. As the zygote takes a trip down the fallopian tube toward the uterus, it begins dividing quickly to form a cluster of cells called a blastocyst, which resembles a small raspberry. When the blastocyst reaches the uterus, it implants in the lining of the uterus and pregnancy starts.
If the egg isn’t fertilized, it’s just reabsorbed by the body– possibly before it even reaches the uterus. About 2 weeks later on, the lining of the uterus sheds through the vaginal area. This is referred to as menstruation.
Absence of menstruation (amenorrhea) may be linked to a hidden, treatable issue. Find out about amenorrhea causes and when to seek help.
