👉 The process of fertilization, or ovulation, is the initial stage in a woman's reproductive cycle where she produces an egg. This event marks the beginning of her pregnancy, and it typically occurs about 24 to 36 hours after her menstrual period ends. The egg then enters the fallopian tube through the cervix, which is lined with smooth muscle tissue, and travels down the uterus towards the womb. Once inside the womb, the embryo (egg) begins to develop into