What is ovulation?
Ovulation is when an ovary releases a tiny egg.
- **Ovaries are inside the body: **Many people have two ovaries.
- **A tiny egg: **One ovary may release a tiny egg.
- **Part of the cycle: **This usually happens once in a cycle.
- **You may not notice it: **Some people feel nothing, and some notice cramps or discharge changes.
You do not need to feel ovulation for it to happen.
Quick answer
Ovulation is when an ovary releases a tiny egg.
It usually happens between periods, but you might not feel it or notice it. Ovulation is one part of the menstrual cycle.
What are ovaries?
Ovaries are small organs inside the body. They are part of the reproductive system.
They help make hormones and can release tiny eggs. You usually cannot feel your ovaries working.
Why does ovulation happen?
During the menstrual cycle, hormones send messages around the body.
At some point in the cycle, an ovary may release a tiny egg. This is ovulation. If the egg is not used by the body, it breaks down. Later, the uterus lining may leave the body as a period.
Do I need to know exactly when I ovulate?
Most kids and teens do not need to know exactly when they ovulate.
It can be useful to understand that ovulation is part of the cycle, but you do not need to track it unless a healthcare professional suggests it or you choose to learn more when you are older.
Can I feel ovulation?
Some people feel a small pain or twinge on one side of the lower tummy around ovulation. Some people notice more slippery discharge. Some notice nothing at all.
Does ovulation mean pregnancy is possible?
Ovulation is one part of how pregnancy can happen.
It does not necessarily mean you are ready for sex, pregnancy or grown-up choices. It only means your body is growing and changing.
If you ever feel confused, worried or unsafe, speak to a trusted adult, school nurse, GP or another safe healthcare professional.
When should I ask for help?
Tell a trusted adult, school nurse, GP or healthcare professional if the pain feels really strong, is mostly on one side, makes you feel faint or sick, comes with a fever, or stops you doing normal things like walking, sleeping, playing or going to school. You should also ask for help straight away if you feel worried about pregnancy, your body, or your safety.
Ask Luma You could ask: “What is ovulation?” or “Is ovulation the same as a period?”
Final reassurance
Ovulation is one part of the menstrual cycle. You do not need to understand everything at once. Learning a little at a time is enough.