I don't actually know when/if im ovulating?

[insert_username]

I know enough about my period to know my symptoms, how it all works (uterus shedding its lining every month) but i dont entirely understand ovulating?
Its apparently something that happens after your period ends, as far as I understand its when you are at your most fertile and (i assume) its when you release some eggs? Im not sure.
Even then regardless of definition, I dont know how to tell that I am. Does it matter? I havent had sex with anyone nor do I have plans to, so what function does ovulating serve?
What symptoms are supposed to happen? Ive never been good at noticing emotional changes or things so subtle like that so ifk what about...
Its been something ive wondered but couldnt find a clear answer for.
Ty!

[char]

Hey insert_username! The ovulation phase happens when an egg cell (a.k.a ovum) is released from the ovary; and yes, it is typically when most menstruating folks are at their most fertile. During this time of the menstrual cycle, the vagina releases fluid that are thinner and clear, kind of like uncooked egg whites. This should be observable on your underwear or panty liner, if you use any. Other signs that you're likely in your ovulation phase include experiencing some cramping (or mittelschmerz), bloating, increased sexual desire, changes in appetite, and generally feeling more positive emotions than usual. That said, these symptoms doesn't show up in everyone, so it's not surprising if you don't tend to notice your ovulation phase. You might want to check out this article about ovulation (and menstrual cycle in general): On the Rag: A Guide to Menstruation

I hear you with the confusion on why ovulation is a thing, especially if you're not planning on having partnered sex. A lot of resources out there, when talking about the menstruation cycle, assume their readers are mostly allosexual folks who may be trying to conceive, so there tends to be a lot of focus on how ovulation ties to sex and pregnancy. At the same time, knowing if we've entered our ovulation phase--which can lead to knowing when we're likely to enter our period--can be empowering, as it helps us understand our own bodies more. As you know, there are also other activities that may be trickier to navigate if we're on our period, such as swimming (if you typically use non-insertive menstrual products). Does that make sense?