Ovulation Health Dictionary

The development and release of an ovum (egg) from a follicle within an ovary. During the 1st half of the menstrual cycle, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) causes several ova to mature in the ovary. At mid-cycle, luteinizing hormone (LH) causes 1 ripe ovum to be released. Signs of ovulation include a rise in body temperature, changes in the cervical mucus, and sometimes mild abdominal pain (see mittelschmerz). A yellow mass of tissue called the corpus luteum, which forms from the follicle after ovulation, releases progesterone during the 2nd half of the cycle.

After its release, the ovum travels along the fallopian tube and, if fertilization does not occur, is shed during menstruation. Regular menstruation usually means that ovulation is occurring, except around puberty and approaching the menopause.

The development and release of an OVUM (egg) from the ovary (see OVARIES) into the FALLOPIAN TUBES. Ovulation is initiated by the secretion of luteinising hormone by the anterior PITUITARY GLAND and occurs half way through the menstrual cycle. If the ovum is not fertilised, it is lost during MENSTRUATION.

n. the process by which an ovum is released from a mature *Graafian follicle. The fluid-filled follicle distends the surface of the ovary until a thin spot breaks down and the ovum floats out surrounded by a cluster of follicle cells (the cumulus oophoricus) and starts to travel down the Fallopian tube to the uterus. Ovulation is stimulated by the secretion of *luteinizing hormone by the anterior pituitary gland.