What happens to the egg after ovulation?
That depends on whether or not fertilization occurs. If the egg is fertilized within a few hours of its release, it will spend the next week or so traveling through the fallopian tubes to the uterus, where it will burrow into the uterine lining and begin the amazing process of developing into a baby. If the egg is not fertilized, it will disintegrate after about 24 hours and either get reabsorbed into the body, or pass out with the menstrual flow. Sources: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, www.acog.org; American Society of Reproductive Medicine, www.asrm.org The information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child’s condition.