What is the process of ovulation?

The process of ovulation refers specifically to the cyclic release of a mature ovum (egg) from the ovary, which typically occurs around the midpoint of the menstrual cycle. This process is crucial for reproduction as it allows the ovum to be available for fertilization by sperm. During ovulation, hormonal changes trigger the dominance of one or more follicles within the ovary, with one follicle usually maturing fully and releasing its ovum into the fallopian tube.

This choice is central to understanding female reproductive physiology, as ovulation is a key event that precedes conception. The other processes mentioned, such as the release of sperm into the uterus or the formation of the placenta, occur at different stages of reproduction and are not directly related to the ovulatory process. The development of a zygote occurs after fertilization of the ovum, further emphasizing the distinct nature of ovulation in the female reproductive cycle.