Ovulation

Ovulation is the process in the menstrual cycle by which a mature ovarian follicle ruptures and discharges an ovum (also known as an oocyte, female gamete, or casually, an egg) that participates in reproduction. Ovulation also occurs in the estrous cycle of animals, which differs in many fundamental ways to the menstrual cycle. Note: This article deals primarily with human ovulation; nonhuman animal ovulation is touched on briefly at the conclusion. Overview In the follicular (pre-ovulat ...