- MEDICINE ATHENS MED4WOMAN ATHENS
- MEDICINE VOLOS MED4WOMAN VOLOS
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Obstetrician Gynaecologist
Doctor of Medicine, University of Athens Medical School
Panagiotis Polyzos, Gynaecologist Obstetrician, is active at the Institute of Life - IVF Unit of Iaso Maternity Hospital.
Every woman is born with hundreds of thousands of immature eggs stored in her ovaries, which later in life will start to be released each month for the purpose of fertilization. The process during which a mature egg is released from the woman’s ovaries is called ovulation. Although the term “ovulation” is widely used, the more accurate term is follicular rupture, since what actually ruptures is not the egg itself, but the follicle — the “sac” in which the egg matures.
Each month, approximately 15 to 20 eggs in each ovary begin to mature inside their follicles. Ovulation occurs when one of the ovaries releases one (or sometimes more, though less frequently) mature egg from the dominant follicle. The egg then travels into the fallopian tube, where it becomes available for fertilization.
At the same time, the endometrium (uterine lining) thickens to host the fertilized egg. If fertilization does not occur, the unfertilized egg is transported into the uterus and expelled from the body together with the endometrial lining through bleeding — known as menstruation or period. However, if fertilization does occur, the fertilized egg will continue its journey toward the uterus over the next 5 to 6 days, where it will implant into the endometrium.
Some women can clearly recognize when they are ovulating, while others do not notice any particular changes. If you are trying to become pregnant, observe your body for a few months, and you will soon be able to identify your fertile days. Some subtle signs of ovulation include:
Learn when eggs are most likely to be released — and increase your chances of conception.
First, you need to understand when ovulation will occur (the release of an egg from the ovary). There are several different methods you can try to help you identify when you are ovulating.
In one study, pregnancy rates for couples who timed intercourse around ovulation were significantly faster compared to what is typically observed among couples trying to conceive:
In most cases, a woman does not experience any clear symptoms before ovulation. However, in some women, symptoms may appear more noticeably and become easily recognized by the woman herself. The most common signs of ovulation may include abdominal discomfort or mild pain, as well as a very small amount of bleeding or spotting from the vagina.
In rare cases, the symptoms may be more intense or bothersome, and it is advisable to consult a gynecologist who can provide guidance and management options. What is certain is that during this time, the fertile days have arrived and the chances of achieving a pregnancy are increased.
If you notice a very small amount of blood, this is generally considered a normal symptom and should not worry you. However, if the bleeding is heavier than usual or more than just spotting, it is advisable to contact your doctor for proper guidance.
The LH hormone, or luteinizing hormone, is produced by the cells of the pituitary gland and is responsible for the proper functioning of the ovaries in women. Ovulation typically occurs about 2.5 days after the increase in LH levels. Immediately afterward, the egg enters the fallopian tubes, where fertilization can take place.
Yes, pain during ovulation is considered normal and is one of the common symptoms indicating that ovulation is beginning. For many women, however, pain may not be present at all. If the pain becomes persistent or bothersome, it is best to contact your doctor and explain your symptoms, so they can provide appropriate guidance.
