Updated by the Progyny Clinical Team — July 2025.
Ovulation is when your ovary releases a mature egg. This egg travels into the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm. If it isn’t fertilized, the lining of the uterus, which has thickened to support a potential pregnancy, will be shed during your period.
Knowing when you’re due to ovulate will help you prepare and plan, which will increase your chances of becoming pregnant.
When does ovulation happen?
Ovulation timing depends on the length of your menstrual cycle. The average menstrual cycle, counting the first day of heavy flow as day 1, is usually 28 to 32 days. In a 28-day cycle, ovulation usually occurs around day 14. In general, ovulation occurs about two weeks before the next expected period.
What happens during ovulation?
Right before you ovulate, your body has a surge of luteinizing hormone (LH). Within 24 to 36 hours of an LH surge, a mature egg is released for fertilization. An egg is available for fertilization for 12 to 24 hours after ovulation and will disappear after 24 hours if it isn’t fertilized. However, sperm can live in the body for three to five days, making the total fertile window about five to seven days.
This means you can get pregnant from intercourse that occurred in the days leading up to ovulation, on the day of ovulation, and for about one day after ovulation. The chance of pregnancy is highest when you have sex the day before you ovulate.
If you’re using an ovulation test, try to have sex the day it turns positive and the day after.
How can I tell if I’m ovulating?
There are several physical signs that may let you know when you are about to ovulate:
- More cervical mucus and change in texture
- Light spotting
- Cramping
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
What happens after ovulation?
If the egg is not fertilized, the lining of the uterus sheds through menstruation. The first day of heavy flow marks the first day of your next cycle, and the process begins again.
If you have any questions, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.
Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.