how long do sperm cells mature for
Hormones associated with the menstrual cycle (period) cause eggs inside the ovaries to mature. Every 28 days or so, one mature egg is released from the ovary. This is called ovulation. After the egg is released, it moves into the fallopian tube where it stays for about 24 hours. If the egg is not fertilized during that time, the egg disintegrates (breaks down) and menstruation (your period) begins 2 weeks later.