ovarianfolliklar

Ovarian follicles are small, fluid-filled sacs found within the ovaries, which are the reproductive organs in females. They play a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and the process of ovulation. Each follicle contains a single oocyte, an immature egg cell, surrounded by a layer of granulosa cells. These cells produce hormones and nutrients that support the growth and maturation of the oocyte.

During the menstrual cycle, several follicles develop, but only one typically reaches maturity and releases its oocyte through ovulation. The dominant follicle, which is the most developed, produces estrogen, a hormone that prepares the uterine lining for potential implantation of a fertilized egg. If fertilization occurs, the resulting embryo can implant in the uterine lining, leading to pregnancy.

Follicles can be classified into three main types based on their size and developmental stage: primordial, primary, and secondary follicles. Primordial follicles are the smallest and contain an immature oocyte surrounded by a single layer of granulosa cells. Primary follicles are slightly larger and have a more developed granulosa cell layer. Secondary follicles are the largest and most developed, with a significant accumulation of fluid and a more complex granulosa cell layer.

The process of follicle development is tightly regulated by hormones, particularly follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of follicles, while LH triggers ovulation, causing the dominant follicle to release its oocyte. After ovulation, the remaining follicle tissue transforms into the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to support the early stages of pregnancy.