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How many days does it take for a follicle to mature? All about follicles in the ovaries

Follicles are the structural components of the gonads in women. One of these elements, called dominant, during ovulation releases an egg that is ripe for conception. With the normal structure of the follicle, as well as its timely ripening, a woman is able to become pregnant. Any deviations from the norm can lead to the development of a cyst on the ovary or even infertility. There are many reasons that can cause these disorders, so if you experience any unusual symptoms, you should immediately seek medical help.

Functions and purpose of follicles

A follicle is an immature egg that is surrounded by a layer of epithelial cells and a double layer of connective tissue. Its main task is to protect the reproductive cell from the negative effects of various factors. It is on these elements that the correct maturation of the egg and its fertilization, and, consequently, the ability to become pregnant and bear a child depend. They are also designed to produce the female hormone estrogen.

In women, the reproductive system and follicular apparatus develop in the perinatal period, and at this stage a constant number of follicles is established, which remains unchanged throughout life (30 - 50 thousand).

There are several stages of follicle development in the ovaries:

  • The formation of several small immature cells.
  • On day 5, ultrasound allows you to see up to ten antral follicles on the periphery of the ovary (their size ranges from 2 to 4 mm).
  • After seven days, their size increases to 6 mm, which makes it possible to examine the network of capillaries at their base.
  • On the eighth day, dominant follicles are determined, which continue to grow and develop.
  • Around day 10, ultrasound makes it possible to identify the dominant follicle, which has the largest size (about 15 mm), while the rest will be half the size.
  • After two weeks, the dominant reaches a size of 25 mm. At this moment, the active production of the female hormone estrogen occurs, under the influence of which the protective membrane breaks through (allowing the egg to come out) and ovulation occurs on days 15–16.
  • The egg enters the fallopian tubes. As a result of its meeting with the sperm, fertilization occurs. Otherwise, during menstruation, it leaves the uterus along with the epithelium.

Violations of the norm

What is the norm of follicles in the ovary? An excess or deficiency of these elements is a violation. If there are more than ten immature eggs in one ovary and this figure remains unchanged throughout the entire cycle, we can talk about exceeding the norm (this can only be detected by ultrasound). Depending on the number of elements detected during ultrasound examination, the following conclusion can be made:

  • in the range from seven to sixteen – there are many follicles in the ovary and the probability of conception is high;
  • from four to six – low probability of pregnancy;
  • less than four – the probability of conception is practically absent.

However, this does not always indicate any pathology and can be caused by stress, anxiety or overwork. In this case, the number of follicles in the ovaries is normalized after the first ovulation. Therapy is carried out if disorders are caused by the following reasons:

  • incorrect choice of contraceptives;
  • dysfunction of the thyroid gland;
  • rapid weight gain or loss;
  • failure of the endocrine system;
  • increased levels of prolactin in the body.

The above disorders can be identified using diagnostic procedures.

An insufficient number or absence of germ cells can be caused by hormonal imbalance or early menopause. Typically, this problem is monitored on the seventh day of the menstrual cycle. In this case, hormonal drugs are prescribed to treat the woman’s reproductive function.

To summarize, we can distinguish two existing options for follicle development:

  • The course of the menstrual cycle with one dominant in the left or right ovary.
  • Its absence, as a result, the egg does not mature, and the menstrual cycle is disrupted. In this case, conception is impossible.

Dominant follicle

In the middle of the cycle, several follicles usually mature, and the rest dissolve. The largest and most developed protective element is dominant. It protects the egg ready for fertilization. Directly during the period of ovulation in the right or left ovary, it can reach a size of several centimeters. Under the influence of hormones, it ruptures, as a result of which the egg is released and rushes to the fallopian tubes, which means that the possibility of pregnancy arises.

In rare cases, simultaneous maturation of dominants occurs in both ovaries. This makes it possible to conceive twins.

There is also a reserve of follicles that are ready for fertilization. They are called antral. When preparing for in vitro fertilization, specialists determine how many follicles are formed and, based on this data, make predictions about the likelihood of pregnancy.

Violation of follicular development

Any disturbances in the development of follicles lead to serious consequences, including infertility. The following deviations may contribute to this:

  • follicular ovaries;
  • inflammatory processes of the pelvic organs;
  • insufficient production of the female hormone - estrogen;
  • endocrine system disorders;
  • problems with ovulation;
  • dysfunction of the pituitary gland;
  • premature menopause (surgical or natural);
  • stress, depression, nervous tension.

Also a very important point is the state of the dominant follicle, which may be absent, not reach the required size, be late in maturation, or not develop at all.

Persistent follicles

With age-related changes or in adolescence, a disruption of the activity of the follicular apparatus, called persistence, often occurs. The main symptoms of the disease are menstrual irregularities, heavy menstrual flow, and bleeding. In this case, reverse development of the follicle in the ovaries occurs, which can lead to the formation of a cyst. To prevent the cyst from bursting, hormonal therapy is prescribed. If the tumor size is significant, hormonal treatment is ineffective and surgery is required. The phenomenon of persistence is accompanied by:

  • hormonal disorders;
  • thickening of the endometrial mucosa;
  • endometrial rejection;
  • compression of the uterus;
  • pain in the lower abdomen, accompanied by spotting or bleeding.

Primordial folliculosis

The ovarian reserve (the supply of eggs in women) is formed in the womb. The primary stage of development of the protective follicle is primordial. In this case, the egg primordia are located on the inner surface of the ovaries and are protected by granulosa cells. This picture is observed until the onset of menstruation. Puberty is characterized by:

  • production of a hormone that stimulates follicle development:
  • growth of the egg nucleus under the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone;
  • maturation of the protective shell of the egg;
  • the monthly development of several follicles that protect the reproductive cell.

Antral folliculosis

Antral follicles in the ovaries are no more than 8 mm in size. They develop on the seventh – eighth day of the menstrual cycle. Monitoring their number in women is important at the stage of determining her ability to become pregnant artificially. The number of protective elements can be determined by ultrasound and, based on the data obtained, the reserve of eggs capable of fertilization can be determined.

If the antral elements reach a size of up to 5 mm, the likelihood of pregnancy is low. If the follicle size is 5–8 mm, a woman is likely to become pregnant without the help of doctors. It is worth noting that during pregnancy, follicles do not form in the ovaries.

Preovulatory follicle

At the last stage of its maturation, the egg is ready for fertilization. In this case, the follicle is almost completely filled with fluid, the day before ovulation, estrogen production increases and the following phenomena are observed:

  • stimulates the release of lutein, which promotes the onset of ovulation;
  • the preovulatory follicle forms a protrusion on its wall, at the site of which a breakthrough later occurs (ovulation);
  • after ovulation, the production of progesterone is activated, preventing endometrial rejection;
  • a corpus luteum is formed, which subsequently forms a network of blood vessels and contributes to the appearance and development of the placenta.

Single follicles

A single follicle is considered ovarian depletion syndrome. In this case, the functioning of the ovaries stops and the woman cannot become pregnant. If there are few follicles and they do not reach normal sizes, menopause occurs instead of ovulation. The causes of menopause at a young age can be:

  • hormonal disorders;
  • metabolic disorders;
  • intense sports activities.

Follicular ovaries

The term "follicular ovaries" is used by ultrasound specialists to describe the features of the ovaries. As a rule, this diagnosis does not indicate the presence of pathology, however, if these signs are accompanied by other symptoms, additional examination is required. At the same time, in the ovarian stroma there is a larger number of immature eggs than there should be. The right and left follicular ovaries look the same. Signs of multiple follicles:

  • the presence of anovulatory cycles as a result of the appearance of a cyst or non-ripening of the dominant follicle;
  • infertility;
  • Irregular menstruation, the menstrual cycle usually increases to 50 days.

Symptoms during ultrasound:

  • enlarged ovaries;
  • the echogenicity of the ovaries is less than the echogenicity of the uterus;
  • there are more than twenty antral germ cells, their diameter does not exceed 9 mm, located diffusely in the stroma;
  • the membrane of the dominant follicle is thin.

A similar phenomenon can be diagnosed in healthy women, as well as in patients suffering from polycystic disease. Therefore, the concept of “follicular ovaries” cannot act as an independent diagnosis. If the patient develops cysts, polycystic syndrome occurs.

The problem can be eliminated with the help of hormonal correction, which not only brings the cycle back to normal, but also makes it possible to get pregnant without any problems. Treatment is carried out by a gynecologist-endocrinologist and is aimed at normalizing the production of the following hormones:

  • estradiol;
  • progesterone;
  • testosterone.

If taking hormones does not produce results, ovulation stimulation will be carried out. The patient is given drugs to enlarge the reproductive cells, an ultrasound scan is performed every two days, and when their growth reaches its peak, the woman is injected with hCG to destroy the follicle membrane and release the egg. At the same time, the probability of multiple pregnancy is high.

In pregnant women, the follicular ovaries have absolutely no effect on pregnancy. However, after childbirth, anovulatory cycles may recur. If you want to plan another pregnancy, you can start taking hormones again and conceive a child. It is worth noting that with this syndrome it is necessary to analyze the hormonal levels and, if deviations are detected, to normalize the level of all hormones responsible for the process of maturation of the egg and the maintenance of pregnancy.

First, you need to understand what the notorious follicles in the ovaries are, and how they can affect a woman’s health. First, let's conduct a short educational program on physiology.

The ovaries are the paired female reproductive organs. They are located in the pelvic area. Their function is generative. Simply put, the ovaries are responsible for the development and maturation of female reproductive cells. In addition, they produce sex hormones and are endocrine glands. This organ consists of connective tissue (scientifically called stroma) and cortex. The follicles in the ovaries mature there. The work of the ovaries is strictly cyclical.

What are follicles?

Each follicle consists of an egg, which is surrounded by a layer of epithelial cells and two layers of connective tissue. All of them go through several stages of development: primordial, preantral (or primary), antral (secondary) and preovulatory (tertiary). In the primordial stage, the follicle size is 50 µm; its development can be suspended until the girl reaches puberty. At the next stage, a cavity is formed that contains follicular fluid. As they mature, the follicles in the ovaries produce androgens, which penetrate the follicular membrane and are transformed into estrogens. Immediately before ovulation, the follicle

increases significantly in size; About 24 hours before the start, an increased release of estrogen begins, which stimulates the release of luteinizing hormone. The wall of the follicle ruptures and the egg comes out - this is ovulation.
Throughout almost a woman's entire life, follicles are formed in a continuous stream. Of these, 99.9 percent do not ovulate, one might say they die. In medicine, this process is called “atresia”. One, maximum two or three follicles undergo ovulation.

Follicle development

You can understand that the follicles in the ovaries have begun to develop by the growth of the oocyte. Resumption of meiosis does not occur. But the formation of cytoplasmic products begins, which will subsequently be consumed

early embryo. The glycoprotein covers the outer surface of the oocyte, and in parallel, the oocyte is covered in several layers of granular cells. Thus, it turns out something like a capsule.
The next stage of follicle development is the formation of a cavity. This cavity is filled with follicular fluid, which appears due to the secretion of granular cells and plasmatic transudate. As the cavity forms, the cells of the capsule divide into cells of the inner and, accordingly, outer shell. This is exactly the time when the follicle grows rapidly: from one millimeter it grows to sixteen. It is during this period that the cavity greatly increases in size due to the fact that capsule cells and granular cells continue to proliferate. The cavity at this stage makes up the majority of the preovular follicle. The oocyte is still surrounded by granule cells and experiences minor changes in the further growth process. Follicular ovaries cannot cause infertility. Strictly speaking, this is not even a diagnosis, but a certain state of the body. However, it needs adjustment, which can be done under the supervision of a doctor.

A follicle is a structural component of the female reproductive gland, consisting of an egg and its surrounding tissues.

Its persistence appears when the rupture of the capsule is not detected and the egg is not able to enter the uterine cavity. The dominant follicle is the one that will very soon ensure the release of the egg into the uterine cavity.

Knowing information about what a follicle is helps to plan a pregnancy and detect problems associated with conception.

In the female body, unique processes of follicle maturation occur. They are laid during the period of embryonic development. Their approximate number in the womb is approximately 500 thousand.

By the beginning of puberty, their number decreases to 40 thousand, but not all of them fully mature. During the entire reproductive period, 500 unique sacs with eggs mature. The rest gradually become atretic, that is, they fade away.

The process of their ripening is extremely complex from a biological point of view. It is influenced by a huge number of factors. It begins in the first phase of the female cycle. In order for this process to occur normally, the presence of follicle-stimulating hormone is required.

At one time, about 10 sacs with oocytes mature, but only one of them will be dominant. An egg will be released on the 14th day.

Approximately on the 7th day of the cycle, using ultrasound, it is possible to visualize the process of growth of the oocyte capsule. The size of each is several millimeters.

Daily ultrasound determines further growth. Reaching 2 cm in diameter, the follicle bursts, the germ cell is released and enters the fallopian tube. In a normal monthly cycle, this occurs on days 13-15. This may be accompanied by the following symptoms:

  • some tenderness in the lower abdomen;
  • the amount of mucus from the female genital organs increases;
  • basal temperature drops;
  • an increase in the amount of luteinizing hormone in the blood.

In one monthly cycle, one follicle matures in the female body. Rarely there are 2 of them, which is not considered a pathology. Moreover, the release of several eggs significantly increases the chances of getting pregnant.

Species

The following types of follicles are distinguished:

  • primordial;
  • primary;
  • secondary;
  • tertiary

Primordial are otherwise called resting. They are localized in the subcapsular zone. They are the smallest. Cells have a flat structure.

The primary ones are otherwise awakened. They are slightly larger than the primordial ones. Around the egg there is a membrane formed by protein substances.

Secondary follicles are somewhat larger. They have stratified epithelium and several small chambers filled with fluid. Around it grows a membrane inside the ovary - the theca. It appears in the ovary earlier than the theca and it is by it that the secondary capsule is identified.

Finally, the tertiary follicle (or Graafian vesicle) is mature. He has reached his greatest development. It begins to put pressure on the surface of the ovary. Its predominant volume is occupied by a cavity (capsule) filled with fluid and containing an oocyte. Surrounded by theca.

What is a persistent follicle?

A persistent follicle develops when the capsule does not rupture. The egg then remains in her because it does not enter the uterine cavity.

This process is pathological because in the presence of persistence, fertilization cannot occur. A woman experiences difficulties with the onset of gestation.

The capsule can exist in the ovary for about 10 days. After this period ends, a new menstruation begins. In some cases, a woman experiences a delay, and it can even last up to one and a half months.

Ovarian capsules dissolve on their own without taking additional medications. Sometimes an ovarian cyst develops and requires treatment.

In the blood of women with persistent ovarian capsules, the amount of estrogen increases and the level of progesterone decreases. Signs of ovulation disappear because the corpus luteum moves into the so-called posterior uterine space.

If the ovarian capsules exist for a long time, then delays in the monthly cycle occur. When menstruation occurs, a large amount of blood is released.

Pay attention! Reproductive activity is related to the balance of hormones. Due to the fact that hormonal levels are disrupted, persistence develops.

If a persistent follicle is detected, pregnancy can be planned only under the supervision of a doctor. To do this, the gynecologist determines the dominant capsule. This is possible with the help of ultrasound examination.

It is done on the eighth day of the cycle. On day 12, the most suitable conditions for conception are created. For this, another ultrasound is prescribed.

The third examination is scheduled for the 18th day. The specialist checks for ovulation. A woman should carefully monitor the condition of her body. After 10 days, a pregnancy test is allowed.

What is a dominant follicle?

Every month, several capsules containing eggs increase in the ovary. Then their growth stops, only one or very rarely two continue to increase. He is dominant. The rest are gradually regressing.

Every day the size of the dominant follicle grows by several millimeters. On the eve of ovulation, it reaches a size of up to 18 - 20 mm. Under these conditions, an oocyte emerges, completely ready to receive a sperm and form a zygote.

On ultrasound, the dominant follicle can be seen already from the fifth day. It is less often seen on the eighth day. At this time, it is significantly superior to other bags.

This growth is due to the active influence of follyl-stimulating hormone. If there is not enough of it in the blood, then it does not reach the required values ​​and even decreases. In this case, an ovarian cyst develops. After ovulation, the corpus luteum grows in the ovary.

Interesting! The dominant follicle is most often found in the right ovary. Today it is not known exactly what causes this phenomenon. Often the corpus luteum can be found just in the right ovary. It is assumed that the phenomenon in question occurs due to the activation of the nervous system.

Norms

How many follicles should there be in an ovary?

The number of all sleeping oocytes is laid down by nature at the stage of embryonic development. It is characteristic that before the onset of puberty it decreases significantly. One egg is released every month.

The number of capsules with oocytes is determined by the day of the cycle. There may be several of them just a few days after your period. On the fifth day there can be up to 10 of them, and this is also the norm. After all, only one follicle will be dominant.

Deviations

In the absence of a dominant follicle, the egg is not released. This happens as a result of hormonal imbalance and certain pathologies:

  • decreased production of follicle-stimulating hormone and increased excretion of luteinizing hormone;
  • regression due to hormonal disorders (including due to increased insulin levels);
  • the presence of a persistent process;
  • the presence of an overripe pouch;
  • the formation of a follicular cyst that grows in place of the dominant follicle (size exceeds 2.5 cm during ultrasound examination);
  • polycystic ovary syndrome;
  • pathological luteinization, when without ovulation the corpus luteum grows at the site of dominance.

Pay attention! With persistence, the follicular membrane ruptures. The egg can be released into the abdominal cavity. Pregnancy does not occur in these cases.

All ovarian development disorders require a thorough instrumental examination. Doctors prescribe tests of a woman’s hormonal levels, since the cause of deviations may be pituitary gland dysfunction and endocrine diseases.

Increased quantity

If the ovaries have more than 10 follicles, they are called multifollicular. There is also polyfollicularity, that is, when an ultrasound reveals a significant number of vesicles. When their number increases several times, the diagnosis of “polycystic disease” is determined.

If the follicular elements are scattered throughout the periphery of the ovary, they become crowded. This interferes with dominance and all processes that promote conception.

This pathology develops due to stress and goes away after a short time. Treatment of the problem is carried out if:

  • multifollicularity is caused by problems with the functioning of the endocrine glands;
  • there is sudden weight loss or weight gain;
  • there were failures when choosing oral contraceptives.

Insufficient quantity

Follicular insufficiency is caused by hormonal problems. You can find out the problem with an ultrasound on the seventh day. If there are less than 6, then the probability of conception is negligible. Finally, if there are less than 4 of them, then pregnancy practically does not occur.

In some cases, women have no follicles at all. The occurrence of problems with the female body is signaled by the complete absence of menstruation. If they are absent for more than 3 weeks, you need to urgently visit a gynecologist.

Why does the follicle not mature?

It may not ripen due to the following reasons:

  • dysfunction of the female reproductive glands;
  • disorders of the functionality of the endocrine system;
  • tumors of the pituitary gland, hypothalamus;
  • inflammatory pathologies of the small pelvis;
  • stress, nervous instability or depression;
  • early onset of menopause.

In these situations, there may be no follicles in the ovaries at all. It often happens that it does not reach sufficient size for an egg to be released.

Follicle growth chart - size by day

The pattern of its growth can be clearly presented in the form of a table.

Stages of development

During its development, the follicle goes through several stages (phases).

Early phase

Several follicles are growing. After one of them (dominant) reaches 24 mm in diameter, ovulation occurs.

Luteal phase

The period between ovulation and the start of a new cycle is called the luteal phase (or corpus luteum phase). After the graafian bubble bursts, it begins to accumulate fats and pigments. This is how the corpus luteum develops. It produces progesterone, androgens, esradiol.

These substances activate the maturation of the endometrium. The uterus is preparing for the implantation of a fertilized oocyte. If pregnancy occurs, the corpus luteum continues to secrete progesterone until the placenta reaches a certain size and begins to produce it itself.

If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum is destroyed. The levels of estrogen and progesterone gradually decrease, which contributes to the start of a new monthly cycle.

More about the antral glands

These are glands that are highly likely to develop into a primordial follicle. In the future, it has the potential to evolve into a dominant one, from which an egg will then be released.

Potentially, all antral glands have a chance to mature into a full-fledged oocyte. But there can be no more than 500 of these in a woman’s entire life. By the age of 50, a woman’s monthly cycle gradually fades away and reproductive function ceases.

What does an ultrasound show?

Capsules with eggs can be easily detected on the screen during ultrasound diagnostics from the fifth day of the cycle. In the future, their dimensions increase. On the 7th day of the cycle, you can see which of them is dominant.

Upon examination, empty follicle syndrome can be detected. This means that the ovary is not able to provide the release of the sex gland. Such a woman needs to get rid of infertility.

Ultrasound is completely safe for the body.

Frequently asked questions

How many days does it take for a follicle to mature?

This process lasts only 9 days (plus or minus one). Provided that the woman’s hormonal levels are stable, ovulation occurs on the 14th day of the cycle.

What could go wrong

With a hormonal disorder, there may be too many follicles in the ovary or, conversely, too few. Sometimes there is no sex gland at all.

All these phenomena negatively affect a woman’s reproductive function.

If the size does not correspond to the standards

The shrinkage of the follicle on the day of ovulation leads to the fact that the egg cannot be released from it. The woman will not be able to get pregnant. An increase in the Graafian vesicle indicates a high probability of a cystic process. It also has a negative effect on conception.

If the follicle does not burst

In this case, they talk about its persistence. This phenomenon is considered pathological and requires correction.

Where do twins come from?

Fraternal twins occur when not one, but two eggs are released from the ovary.

Interesting! There are known facts when twins were born from two men. This happens if a woman had sexual intercourse with different men, and the fusion of the egg and sperm occurred on different days.

The follicle is the most important structural element of the ovary. The likelihood of an egg being released and a woman’s chances of becoming pregnant depend on their number and development. The discrepancy between its size and quantity and the norm is a pathology. Such women should be treated for infertility.

5 minutes to read.

In a woman’s body, complex processes are constantly repeated that help the birth of a new life in her. The egg grows inside a special capsule that protects the organ from negative external influences. The development of the follicle helps to understand whether successful fertilization can occur, what changes await hormonal levels and prevent the occurrence of possible diseases.

Follicle concept

Follicles are small sacs that contain immature eggs. Each woman has her own supply of the latter, which is laid down at the stage of embryonic development. This occurs around the sixth week. The development of follicles in the ovaries is completed at the moment a person is born. According to scientific research, the number of such bags sometimes reaches 500 thousand. All of them will play their role for 35 years, because this is how long the reproductive period usually lasts. If they do not have time to ripen, they will subsequently die.

The so-called sacs are present in the body to perform two functions:

  • estrogen production;
  • protection from damage.

The process of follicle maturation

In the first phase of the menstrual cycle, the hormone that stimulates the development of follicles (FSH) is actively active in the body. Under its influence, they begin to increase. Over time, the volume of liquid in the capsule constantly increases, and its walls tend to stretch. On the day of possible fertilization, the latter bursts, and the formed one moves into the uterine tube, where it can actively interact with the sperm.

At full maturity, in each cycle the follicle matures, but only one. As for the rest, they produce estrogen, which is responsible for the endometrium. In most cases, it is the dominant follicle that matures.

The liquid present in it contains salts, proteins and other compounds that help the egg grow.

In medical practice, there are three main types of follicles:

  • dominant (main). It is he who stretches on the day of possible pregnancy. Rarely do two appear at once. If this happens, then there is a chance of twins being born.
  • persistent. Doctors begin to talk about its formation if the capsule does not rupture and the egg dies inside it. Then an anovulatory cycle occurs.
  • antral. It grows at the beginning of the cycle under the influence of FSH. One of them, with development, becomes the main one, and the rest die.

Follicle maturation is a very complex process from a biological point of view. It is influenced by many factors. When the menstrual cycle is regular, around day 7, an ultrasound will show the size of the follicle to be a few millimeters in size. If further research is carried out, the growth trend of the shell will be monitored.

There is an increase of approximately 2 mm per day. The maximum size can reach 20 mm. When it comes to high rates, you should wait for the follicle to rupture during ovulation. It is often accompanied by the following sensations:

  • pain in the lower abdomen;
  • presence of mucous membranes;
  • increase in LH in the blood.

The most optimal follicle size for the release of an egg and the onset of ovulation is 20-24 mm.

If the follicle is not mature

Today, the problem of infertility is quite common. The reason for unsuccessful conception is often the immature membrane containing the egg. A doctor will help solve this problem. We are usually talking about:

  • ovarian dysfunction;
  • presence of a tumor;
  • frequent stress;
  • improper functioning of the endocrine system;
  • early menopause.

Delayed or premature formation of the egg is also considered a deviation. Additional examination will help identify the problem.

What happens after ovulation

After this phase ends, the production of the important hormone progesterone begins. The latter helps prepare for the entry of a fertilized cell. The empty shell, in turn, begins to shrink. If conception does not occur, the levels of progesterone and estrogen decrease markedly. In this case, the lining of the uterus peels off. This situation indicates the beginning of a new cycle.

What to do if maturation has occurred, but there is no ovulation?

To understand how a follicle bursts, you need to observe what happens before. It happens that nothing comes out of the capsule. Then there is a possibility of the existence of a follicular cyst. The reasons for its formation are as follows:

  • oversaturation of the body with estrogen;
  • gynecological diseases;
  • constant change of sexual partners;
  • excessive alcohol consumption;
  • unbalanced diet, including exhausting diets;
  • abortions;
  • stress.

Sometimes, in order for the egg to be released, it is enough to rest and include healthy foods in your diet. Medications are prescribed to maintain a balanced amount of hormones. In particular, in the second half of the cycle, doctors prescribe progesterone. By the way, it is not canceled in case of successful fertilization.

According to doctors, the growth of the follicle can already be considered good news. However, for the egg to be released, the space needs to be helped to open. There are unique mechanisms for this. Sometimes you have to resort to using medications.

Ultrasound monitoring

This analysis method is called folliculometry. It helps to track changes in dynamics.
Positive aspects of this method:

  • it becomes possible to assess the condition of the uterus as a whole;
  • you can track the growth of the pouches;
  • possible violations are identified.

By the way, if an ultrasound is performed by an unqualified specialist, there is no point in using this method. Computer examination does not help assess the patency of the tubes.

If a woman has a 28-day cycle, then the first ultrasound can be done on day 8, when the bleeding has stopped. It is recommended to repeat the study after a couple of days. The next visit to the hospital is determined by the doctor, based on the results of the previous examination.

It is worth noting that clear visualization of 15 mm dots on the screen does not indicate the exact occurrence of ovulation. Also, this will not be confirmed by a single ultrasound.

Conclusions

The development of the follicle helps determine whether everything is normal with fertility. Violation of this process indicates the presence of disruptions in the normal functioning of the female body. When the development of one follicle has occurred, but the capsule has not ruptured, it is time to contact a specialist.

Before the moment of birth, about half a million follicles are initially formed in the developing body of a girl.

But upon reaching puberty, their number is reduced to forty thousand. During a woman's lifetime, only 500 mature in a woman's ovaries.

Without their full development, representatives of the fair sex are not able to get pregnant.

The procedure for forming the components of the ovaries is called. It is quite complex and multi-stage. It all starts in the first phase of the menstrual cycle under the influence of estrogen. The functional balance of the reproductive system depends on the level of this hormone.

Thanks to hormones, new follicles are formed.

The maturation of structural components is accompanied by:

  • nagging pain in the lower abdomen;
  • irritability;
  • excessive sensitivity;
  • an increase in the volume of white mucous discharge from the genital tract.

Rectal temperature decreases before ovulation and gradually increases after the process of egg release.

Follicles are structural components of the paired sex gland, shaped like a vesicle. They contain gametes (eggs) arranged in a ring of epithelial cells and two layers of connective tissue. Whether a woman can conceive and subsequently bear a child depends on reliable protection of the egg.

Phases of the menstrual cycle

The functioning of all organs of the reproductive system depends on the cyclical changes that periodically occur in a woman’s body.

The process is usually divided into three phases:

  1. follicular or menstrual;
  2. ovulatory;
  3. luteal or secretory.

Phases of the menstrual cycle

Smoothly flowing from one to another, the periods prepare a viable egg for fertilization, and in the future for bearing a healthy fetus.

Follicular

The onset of the phase coincides with the beginning of menstruation, that is, with the first bleeding. Its duration depends on physiology, age and lifestyle, and averages 11 days.

Separate parts of the brain: the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, trigger the work of the ovaries. Several follicles develop simultaneously in the appendages. Within seven days, the structural components reach large sizes, but by this time only one viable component is determined - .

Menstrual cycle

It continues to grow under the influence, and during the ripening process it increases by 2 mm per day. A mature follicle reaches twenty millimeters. It provides protection to the egg until ovulation.

Other follicles gradually disappear. However, when the hormonal system malfunctions, these bubbles remain and interfere with the full growth of the dominant component.

Ovulatory

The shortest phase. With an approximate duration of the menstrual cycle of 28 days, only three occur during ovulation. During this period, a luteal surge is observed, which is aimed at completing the process of formation of the dominant follicle.

At the same time, it activates other hormones, under the influence of which the wall of the vesicle containing the egg ruptures. For a woman who is planning to become pregnant, this phase is a good opportunity to conceive a baby.

Luteal

The last stage occurs after the release of the reproductive gamete. Basically, the phase lasts up to 16 days.

Instead of a developing follicle, a corpus luteum is formed - a temporary gland that produces progesterone.

At this stage, the hormone estrogen is actively produced, leading to the appearance of premenstrual syndrome. It is characterized by:

  • swelling of the mammary glands;
  • increased appetite;
  • changes in mood.

When conception occurs, the fertilized egg enters the uterine cavity, attaches to the endometrium and creates the placenta. If this does not happen, then the corpus luteum dies, and the reproductive gamete, along with the mucous membrane and blood, is excreted from the body. At the same time, a decrease in hormone levels is observed.

All indicators are restored after menstruation.

Ultrasound monitoring of follicle maturation

Reproductive system failures occur in women of all ages. Therefore, when conception does not occur for a long time, the gynecologist prescribes a referral for folliculometry. Ultrasound examination helps determine:

  • date of ovulation;
  • growth and maturation of follicles;
  • whether a dominant one develops among them.

Determination of ovulation by ultrasound

Identifies destructive conditions of the female genital organs, including:

Doctors check the formation that regulates the production of progesterone necessary for the normal course of pregnancy. In addition, during the examination, the condition of the endometrium - the inner mucous membrane of the uterus - is assessed. An ultrasound will also determine the favorable day for conception and the possible gender of the child.

Indications for the study

  • pregnancy not occurring during active sexual activity for a year;
  • large gap between regulations;
  • artificial replantation of sperm into the uterus;
  • IVF planning;
  • stimulation of ovulation;
  • scanty or irregular menstruation;
  • underdeveloped uterus (hypoplasia).

Preparation

If a woman’s monthly cycle is constant, the study is carried out on the eighth to tenth day from the beginning of the regulation.

If the cycle is inconsistent, then it is advisable to perform the procedure starting from the third day after the end of menstruation.

To do this, exclude from the diet foods that cause increased gas formation: legumes, cabbage, onions, carbonated drinks. Do not eat too salty, sweet or spicy foods, as well as marinades.

On the eve of the diagnosis, you can drink a laxative prescribed by the gynecologist. Before the procedure itself, it is recommended to take a shower or wash your genitals.

How is it carried out?

The examination is carried out using two methods:

  1. Transabdominal - through the abdominal wall.
  2. Transvaginally - the sensor is inserted directly into the vagina.

With the first method, you should drink one and a half liters of water 45-50 minutes before the start of the procedure.

The second involves the opposite effect - emptying the bladder. To ensure accurate results, it is possible to use two methods alternately.

When

Ultrasound monitoring is carried out in stages, on certain days, since a single examination will not give a specific picture of changes in the female body.

Upon initial examination, several follicles measuring 5-9 mm are found in the ovaries. The second time, three days later, the doctor’s task is to identify the dominant one, which is larger than the others and reaches one centimeter. If it is not possible to determine it in this phase, then the examination can be stopped, since, most likely, the woman will need stimulation of ovulation.

Follicle size 15 mm

During the third ultrasound, two days later, the size of the follicle is already about 23 millimeters in diameter, and the endometrium has a three-layer structure with a total thickness of approximately 11 mm. If this does not happen, then perhaps the fertilized egg will not stay in the uterus and pregnancy will not occur. The next study should reveal the release of mature gametes from the ovary and changes in the internal mucous layer of the uterus.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Ultrasound monitoring is much more effective than the calendar method or measuring basal temperature, as it gives the most accurate idea of ​​the monthly cycles occurring in the female body.

However, this method is very labor-intensive, because the patient has to undergo examination 4-5 times during the menstrual cycle.

In addition, to clarify the result, the procedures should be repeated during the next menstrual cycle.

According to the procedures, disturbances in folliculogenesis, if any, are detected. The exact date of ovulation is also established, which is needed to determine the period of time suitable for conception.

How many follicles should mature?

Normally, about ten follicles develop in a woman’s body every month. But only one becomes dominant. If several have formed at once, then there is a high probability of a multiple pregnancy.

Why don't follicles mature?

Failures in the ovulation process are a common cause of infertility, which is preceded by various physiological and pathological factors in the body. Among them:

  • inflammatory or infectious damage to the pelvic organs;
  • tumors of various origins and microcirculation disorders in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland;
  • destructive conditions of the ovaries caused by surgery, inflammation, trauma;
  • constant stress, depression;
  • overweight;
  • excessive physical activity;
  • early .

The maturation of the follicle in the ovary is a regular multi-stage process, depending on many reasons. In order for conception to occur at the intended time, deviations that interfere with fertilization must be detected in a timely manner. To do this, an ultrasound examination is performed to help track folliculogenesis at each stage in order to identify pathologies.