Ovulation
About 12 to 16 days before the next period.
What happens in the ovulation?
When oestrogen gets high enough, the brain releases a big burst of LH. Ovulation follows within about 36 hours. The egg lives for roughly 12 to 24 hours. Sperm can survive for several days, which is why the fertile window starts before ovulation. The NHS says ovulation happens roughly 10 to 16 days before your next period.
What people tend to notice, and what helps
Clear, wet, slippery and stretchy, like raw egg white.
From: Discharge, decodedEgg-white mucus. The cervix is often described as higher and softer.
From: Cervical mucus and cervix positionSkin can look glowy; oil may start to pick up.
From: Acne and skin through your cycleDesire peaks for many, but not all, people around now.
From: Libido through your cycleLH surges, an egg is released. Discharge often turns clear and stretchy.
From: The four phases, in depthOestrogen peaks and LH surges.
From: Meet your hormonesPeak fertility is the day or two before and the day of ovulation.
From: Your fertile window, explainedLook for the shift: a sustained rise over a few days.
From: Temperature tracking (BBT) when trying to conceiveSome people feel social and confident around now. Plenty do not.
From: Why your mood shifts across the cycleLean into connection if you feel like it: see friends, call family, say yes to the plan.
From: Self-care for every phaseSome feel at their most social and talkative.
From: Social energy across your cycleIf you feel strong and social, enjoy team sports, dance or a tougher session.
From: Exercise by phase: listen first, plan secondUsually settled. Keep your routine going.
From: Sleep across your cycleWalk with a friend and make it social.
From: Walking: the most underrated exerciseNo special foods needed.
From: Eating by phase: what the evidence really saysEnergy often feels high. Warm up well.
From: Exercising on your periodMany people notice a peak – higher sex drive is a common ovulation sign.
From: Libido ups and downsLibido often peaks. Flirt, connect – and if you’re not trying for a baby, be reliable about contraception.
From: How partners can support each phaseSome people feel extra confident. Enjoy it!
From: Body confidence (in and out of bed)
Read more about this phase
Body literacy
Sex & relationships
Movement & sleep
Fertility & TTC
Sources
This is general information, not medical advice. Splash can’t diagnose. If you’re worried, talk to a GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinic. In an emergency call 999 (UK) or 911 (US).
Know which phase you are in today.
Splash shows your phase on the cycle ring every morning, with tips that fit it. Free, no account.