How long does ovulation usually last?

Once a mature egg is released, it lives for about 12 to 24 hours. If it’s not fertilised within that window, it disintegrates and is absorbed by the body. But the fertile window around it can last 5 to 6 days.

How to tell the difference between ovulation cramps and implantation cramps?

Ovulation cramps usually occur mid-cycle, on one side of the lower abdomen, and can last a few hours. Implantation cramps are usually mild and occur 6 to 12 days after ovulation, often accompanied by light spotting.

Key Signs of Ovulation Your Body Sends Every Month

Ovulation is an integral part of your menstrual cycle, yet many people don’t realise when it’s happening. Your body does give little hints when ovulation occurs if you pay close attention. These signs of ovulation can be physical, like slight changes or sensations in your body, or subtle shifts in your energy or mood. They happen every month, and noticing them can make tracking your cycle much easier and more accurate. Knowing your ovulation signs is useful not just if you’re trying to conceive, but also to understand your fertile window and your body’s natural rhythm. Once you start paying attention to these signals, you can spot ovulation without relying only on apps or tests.What Is Ovulation?Ovulation happens when a mature egg is released from a dominant follicle in one of your ovaries, typically around 13 to 14 days before your next period starts. The egg is picked up by the fallopian tube, where it can meet sperm, and fertilisation takes place. If the egg and sperm don't meet for any reason, and an embryo is not formed, in that case the lining of the uterus, which was being prepared to receive the embryo, sheds in the form of periods. This process usually occurs once a month in healthy individuals, but the exact timing can vary. If you know when you’re ovulating, you can figure out your fertile days. That’s really useful if you’re trying to get pregnant or just want to understand your body better.What Are the Key Signs of Ovulation?Your body gives you a few clues when ovulation is around the corner. You might not notice all of them, and for some people, the signs are really subtle. Here’s what to look out for:1. Changes in Cervical MucusOne of the clearest signs of ovulation is a change in your vaginal discharge, known as cervical mucus. Your body produces more oestrogen as you get closer to ovulation, making the mucus wetter, clearer, and stretchier, kind of like raw egg whites. This texture helps sperm swim towards the egg more easily. This usually shows up a few days before you actually ovulate, so it’s a strong hint that your most fertile time is near.2. Slight Rise in Basal Body TemperatureYour basal body temperature (BBT) is basically your body’s resting temperature. You measure it first thing in the morning before getting out of bed. After ovulation, your BBT rises slightly by 0.3 to 0.6°C. This happens because of the hormone progesterone, and it’s a clear sign that ovulation has already taken place. To track it, you’ll need a BBT thermometer and a daily log of your readings over a few months.3. Ovulation Pain (Mittelschmerz)Some people feel a mild ache or sharp twinge in their lower abdomen on one side during ovulation. This is called mittelschmerz, meaning “middle pain” in German, and it’s caused by the egg breaking free from the ovary. For most, it’s not very strong and can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours.4. Increased Sex DriveFeeling more sexually driven can be one of the common symptoms of ovulation. A surge in luteinising hormone (LH) and oestrogen just before ovulation can boost your libido. This natural increase in desire often peaks two to three days before ovulation, which also happens to be when you’re most fertile. It’s just your body’s clever way of nudging you towards conception.5. Breast Tenderness or SensitivityIncreases in oestrogen and progesterone during ovulation can make your breasts feel sore, heavier, or more sensitive. This might happen just before or right after ovulation. The sensation is similar to what some people feel before their period, but it’s a useful clue when paired with other ovulation signs.6. Heightened Sense of SmellEver notice you’re more sensitive to smells at certain times? During ovulation, some people experience a sharper sense of smell as hormonal changes make you more responsive to pheromones. This heightened sensitivity can also extend to taste or even vision for some.7. Mood and Energy BoostOvulation can bring a feel-good vibe. Rising oestrogen levels at this stage can make you feel more energetic, confident, or social. Some people even find they’re more focused and productive.8. Light Spotting or DischargeA small amount of light spotting or pinkish-brown discharge can occur as part of ovulation symptoms. This happens when the follicle ruptures to release the egg, which can cause minor bleeding. It’s usually very light and lasts a day or less, and looks different from period blood.9. Positive Ovulation Test ResultFor a more precise way to detect ovulation, ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) are a great tool. These kits measure the surge in luteinising hormone (LH) in your urine, which happens 12 to 36 hours before ovulation. You just need to pee on the test strip, and if the result is positive, it means ovulation is close. Your body is always sending signals about what’s happening inside, and ovulation is one of them. Paying attention to these signs of ovulation can help you understand your cycle better and know when you’re most fertile. If you’re trying for a baby, tracking these changes can be really useful.You’re not alone in your journey when trying to conceive. Join our supportive community to connect with others, share experiences, and find encouragement every step of the way.

FAQs on These are the Signs Your Body Will Send That Show Ovulation

How long does ovulation usually last?
Once a mature egg is released, it lives for about 12 to 24 hours. If it’s not fertilised within that window, it disintegrates and is absorbed by the body. But the fertile window around it can last 5 to 6 days.
How to tell the difference between ovulation cramps and implantation cramps?
Ovulation cramps usually occur mid-cycle, on one side of the lower abdomen, and can last a few hours. Implantation cramps are usually mild and occur 6 to 12 days after ovulation, often accompanied by light spotting.