In which phase of the menstrual cycle would ovulation occur?

Ovulation occurs during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. This phase follows ovulation, which typically happens around the midpoint of the cycle. The luteal phase is characterized by the release of progesterone from the corpus luteum, which develops from the follicle that released the egg. This hormone prepares the endometrium for a potential implantation of a fertilized egg.

The follicular phase precedes ovulation and involves the maturation of follicles in the ovaries, ultimately leading up to the release of the mature egg. The menstrual phase is when the endometrial lining is shed if fertilization does not occur. The proliferative phase follows menstruation and involves rebuilding the endometrial lining under the influence of estrogen, preparing for a possible pregnancy. Overall, the luteal phase is essential as it encompasses the events following ovulation that contribute to pregnancy or the onset of menstruation if implantation does not happen.