Once released the ovum or egg lives (and therefore is only available for fertilization) for only 12-24 hours. ⁠
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If you are trying to conceive, this in itself provides a very short window of opportunity each cycle. The good news however is that cervical mucus, which is produced in the days leading up to ovulation. enables the sperm to survive for up to 5 days and wait for the egg. ⁠
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Charting your mucus observations is a wonderful tool for identifying when you are fertile. ⁠ Find out more here.