This is day 14 of your menstrual cycle

You're very likely to ovulate today, if you haven't already, and if egg meets sperm, you may soon be pregnant.

266 days until your due date

Ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary (sometimes two), typically happens around day 14 but can be earlier or later. Estrogen from the growing follicles makes LH rise, and this triggers the final changes in the follicle. LH makes the egg fully mature and ready for fertilization, and at this point the egg halves its chromosomes from 46 to 23.

The follicle is now full of fluid and 1 in (2 cm) or more across, sitting just below the surface of the ovary like a blister about to burst.

The follicle then releases enzymes that break down its outer layer, freeing the egg onto the surface of the ovary.

The finger-like projections at the end of the nearest fallopian tube sweep the egg inside, where it will hopefully be fertilized.

As a matter of fact

Twins again

If you've already had nonidentical twins, your chance of having another set is four times higher.

Nonidentical twins happen when two follicles fully ripen and both released eggs are fertilized. Most women who conceive nonidentical twins without fertility drugs tend to release more than one egg per cycle. The chance of a second set of twins is about 1 in 3000.

Explainer

Ovulation

At ovulation, the follicle bursts and the egg breaks through the surface of the ovary. Sometimes two follicles mature this far and both release an egg.

Focus on

Relationships: Pressure to conceive

When you're trying to conceive, it can be all you think about, which can strain your relationship. Sex can become clinical, with you both seeing each other less as lovers and more as parts of a baby-making machine, and the enjoyment gets lost.

Your partner may resent feeling under pressure to provide sperm, and this stress can affect his willingness or even ability to have sex. That can start a downward spiral that makes conception less likely and causes conflict.

Make an effort to be loving and work together. Consider a break, since couples often conceive when they're relaxed on vacation, and enjoy some stress-free sex outside your fertile window too.

This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.