When does ovulation typically occur?

Ovulation typically occurs approximately 14 days prior to the next menstrual period due to the average length of the menstrual cycle, which is about 28 days. This timing is crucial as it marks the point when a mature egg is released from the ovary, ready for potential fertilization. The 14-day timeframe is based on the luteal phase of the cycle, which generally lasts around 14 days, remaining relatively consistent regardless of the total cycle length.

This means that even if an individual has a longer or shorter cycle, ovulation still happens around two weeks before menstruation begins, making it a reliable marker for predicting fertility. Understanding this timing is vital for those trying to conceive, as it helps identify the most fertile days within the menstrual cycle.

Other options refer to events that do not align with the typical ovulation timing. For instance, ovulation does not occur during menstruation or at the end of the menstrual cycle, as those times are associated with shedding the uterine lining and preparing for the next cycle, respectively. Additionally, ovulation cannot occur after fertilization because once an egg is fertilized, it typically undergoes its transformation into an embryo and begins the process of implantation, which marks the end of the ovulatory phase