During which day of the menstrual cycle does ovulation typically occur?

Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 of a standard menstrual cycle, which is generally about 28 days long. This timing relates to the hormonal fluctuations that take place during the cycle. The cycle begins with the first day of menstruation (day 1), when levels of estrogen and progesterone are low. As the cycle progresses, estrogen levels rise during the follicular phase, leading up to ovulation.

Around day 14, a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers the release of the mature egg from the ovary, which is known as ovulation. This egg has a window of about 12-24 hours for fertilization before it begins to disintegrate if not fertilized.

The other days mentioned do not correspond to the typical timing of ovulation. Day 1 is the onset of menstruation; day 7 is still part of the follicular phase before the LH surge; and day 21 usually marks the time when the luteal phase is in full swing, with the focus shifting to the maintenance of the uterine lining and preparation for a potential pregnancy. Thus, recognizing day 14 as the ovulation timeframe helps align understanding of fertility windows and cycle tracking in functional health assessments.