What is ovulation?

Ovulation happens when a mature egg is released from your ovary. It travels down the fallopian tube, ready to meet any sperm cells that might be hanging around. It’s also the time of the month that you're most likely to get pregnant, so it's a pretty big deal.

During this time, your body is releasing a surge of hormones, like estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH), which trigger the release of the egg. This phase usually happens around the middle of your cycle, about 14 days before your period starts, although it can vary.

What’s happening inside your body during this phase?

The big player during ovulation is estrogen. As your egg matures, your estrogen levels peak, which is why this phase can bring a boost of energy, confidence, and even clearer skin. You might notice you’re feeling more social or even a little extra “glowy” during ovulation, and that’s all thanks to the hormonal shift.

There’s also a biological thing happening: the mucus around your cervix changes, becoming more clear and stretchy, which helps sperm travel more easily toward the egg. It’s your body’s way of creating the right environment for conception.

Ovulation is also when your basal body temperature (BBT) will dip slightly, then rise after the egg is released. If you’re tracking your cycle, this is a key sign that ovulation has occurred.

Listening to your body while you're ovulating

Ovulation can be one of the most noticeable phases of your cycle. It’s when you feel most energized, confident, and even a little extra in the best way. You also might notice:

• Increased libido: Some people feel hornier around ovulation, thanks to the hormone surge. It’s nature's, and your body’s, way of trying to encourage you to procreate!
• Light cramping: Some people experience a mild twinge or sharp pain on one side of their lower abdomen, known as “mittelschmerz.” It’s usually not a big deal but signals that ovulation is in motion.
• An energy boost: Estrogen levels peak, so you may feel more confident, outgoing, and energized than usual. It’s the perfect time to take on challenges and do things that help you feel your best.

Embracing the peak of your cycle

Ovulation is like the high point of your cycle, when everything is in full gear. Even if pregnancy isn’t on your radar, ovulation is a powerful reminder of how incredible the body is, working behind the scenes to keep us in balance.

Ovulation-knowledge is power. Track it on Stardust.