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Secrets in the Ovaries: Do you know how follicles affect female fertility?
The ovary is an important part of the female reproductive system, of which the follicle is its basic unit. These follicles not only store and release eggs, but also secrete hormones that affect fertility. For every woman, the health of her follicles will profoundly affect her fertility.
During puberty, women have approximately 200,000 to 300,000 follicles in each ovary that have the potential to release eggs for fertilization.
Structure of the ovarian follicle
Each follicle contains an immature egg (oocyte) and is protected by different cell structures. The main components include granulosa cells and follicle membrane structures.
Oocyte and granulosa cell
Every month, an ovary releases a mature egg (oocyte). Granulosa cells are cells that surround the oocyte and their number increases or decreases depending on the level of gonadotropin.
When gonadotropin (FSH) increases, luteinizing hormone (LH) receptors are expressed on the surface of granulosa cells, thereby affecting the development of follicles.
Follicular development process
The development process of follicles can start from primordial follicles and gradually develop into primary, secondary and mature follicles. This change affects not only the quantity but also the quality of eggs, which is related to women's fertility.
Oocyte maturation
During the process of follicle maturation, the oocyte undergoes a change from a primary oocyte to a secondary oocyte. The success or failure of this stage will directly lead to whether healthy eggs can be produced.
Clinical significanceA healthy egg can only be released if it has undergone the correct changes and received the appropriate hormonal support.
Oversized follicles, i.e. those with a diameter exceeding three centimeters, will be diagnosed as ovarian cysts, which may affect women's fertility. Gynecological ultrasound examination can be used to assess ovarian function and the volume of follicles.
In addition to physiological examinations, contemporary technology has also developed options such as cryopreservation of ovarian tissue, which is particularly important for women who wish to preserve their fertility, such as those undergoing cancer treatment.
Conclusion
The health of ovarian follicles is closely related to a woman's fertility. Understanding these internal processes can not only improve women's reproductive health, but also help the medical community develop more effective treatment options. So, have you started to think about your understanding and concern about follicular health?
