Definitions of Ovulation

Ovulation Definitions

Ovulation is a physiological process that occurs in women of childbearing age and is the release of a mature egg from the ovarian follicle into the abdominal cavity. The term "ovulation" comes from the Latin word "ovum", which means "egg". Ovulation is one of the stages of the menstrual cycle in women.

Most women ovulate periodically every 21-35 days. The average cycle is said to last 28 days and this article will cover questions based on this value.

Ovulation is regulated by neurohumoral mechanisms, including hormones from the anterior pituitary gland (gonadotropic hormones) and ovarian follicular hormone. The accumulation of follicular fluid and the depletion of ovarian tissue located above the pole of the follicle promote ovulation. The ovulation rhythm of each woman can change within 3 months after an abortion, within a year after childbirth and after reaching the age of about 40 years, when the body prepares for the premenopausal period. Physiologically, ovulation stops during pregnancy and after the cessation of menstrual function.

Despite the fact that ovulation is a well-studied process, until recently there were no clear methods for determining the moment of ovulation. Determining the exact time of ovulation is important for choosing the most favorable time for fertilization, artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization.

Today, various methods for determining ovulation are available. One of them is subjective signs. Some women may notice short-term pain in the lower abdomen, a sensation of a burst bubble in the middle of the cycle, or increased sexual desire.

Another method is to observe the discharge from the cervical canal. During ovulation, maximum mucus production occurs, associated with a sharp increase in estrogen levels. Mucus characteristics such as distensibility, clarity and crystallization can be used to determine ovulation. There are special microscopes for home use that help observe the crystallization of mucus.

In recent years, the use of saliva to determine ovulation has become popular. Changes that occur in vaginal mucus are reflected in saliva. One of the devices based on this phenomenon is an ovulation detection device called the Baby Plan. It is also called the contraceptive of the 21st century.

Another method of determining ovulation is to measure basal temperature. This method is simple and accessible, and requires only a regular medical thermometer.

Basal temperature measurement is performed in the morning, immediately after waking up, without getting out of bed. Temperature is measured in the mouth, vagina or rectum. During ovulation, there is a slight increase in basal temperature, which can serve as a sign of the onset of ovulation.

In conclusion, determining ovulation is important for women planning a pregnancy or monitoring their reproductive health. Subjective signs, observation of cervical discharge, measurement of basal temperature and the use of special devices such as the Baby Plan are methods that can help determine the moment of ovulation. Each of these methods has its own advantages and limitations, so women can choose the one that best suits their needs and is convenient to use.