During which phase of the ovarian cycle does the mature follicle release an egg?

During the ovarian cycle, the phase in which the mature follicle releases an egg is known as the ovulatory phase. This phase occurs roughly in the middle of the cycle and is marked by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers ovulation. During this event, the mature Graafian follicle ruptures and releases the oocyte (egg) into the fallopian tube, where it can potentially be fertilized by sperm.

The follicular phase precedes the ovulatory phase and involves the development of ovarian follicles, but no egg release occurs during this time. The luteal phase follows ovulation and focuses on the preparation of the uterine lining for potential implantation of a fertilized egg, as well as the maintenance of hormonal support if fertilization occurs. The menses phase refers to the shedding of the uterine lining if there is no pregnancy, and is also not when ovulation takes place.

Understanding the role each phase plays in the ovarian cycle helps clarify why the ovulatory phase is specifically associated with the release of the egg.