During which phase of the menstrual cycle does ovulation occur?

Ovulation occurs during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. This phase begins on the first day of menstruation and lasts until ovulation. During this time, the pituitary gland releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles. As these follicles develop, they produce estrogen, leading to a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) just prior to ovulation. This LH surge triggers the release of a mature egg from the ovary, marking the point of ovulation.

The other phases mentioned play different roles in the menstrual cycle. The luteal phase occurs after ovulation and involves the preparation of the uterine lining for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. Menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining when pregnancy does not occur, while the secretory phase is a part of the luteal phase where the endometrium continues to thicken and prepare for possible implantation. Thus, the identification of the follicular phase as the time of ovulation is accurate, reflecting the biological processes involved in the menstrual cycle.