Inclusive Anatomy
Structure:
The vesicular ovarian follicle, also medically referred to as the antral follicle or mature secondary follicle, develops within the ovary. The vesicular ovarian follicle specifically refers to the stage of follicular growth at which a fluid-filled cavity, known as the antrum, is formed around the oocyte.[3] This stage is preceded by the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)-mediated maturation of a subset of primordial follicles into secondary follicles during the follicular phase of each menstrual cycle.[1,2] Among these vesicular follicles, one typically becomes the dominant follicle, while the remaining follicles undergo atresia.[2] Following the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge, the oocyte is released from the dominant follicle at the surface of the ovary as ovulation occurs. If two or more dominant follicles remain and undergo ovulation, this can lead to non-identical multiple gestations.[1,2]
Popular
Recipes
Function:
The vesicular ovarian follicle supports the maturation and emergence of a dominant follicle during the follicular phase of each menstrual cycle. The dominant follicle then prepares the oocyte for ovulation, which occurs following the LH surge, and forms the corpus luteum after the oocyte is released.[3] The corpus luteum secretes hormones to promote embryo implantation in the endometrium.[3]
References:
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Carroll R. Elsevier’s Integrated Physiology: Female Reproductive System. Mosby; 2007.
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Holesh JE, Bass AN, Lord M. Physiology, Ovulation. Updated May 1, 2023. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441996/
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Richards J. Graafian follicle function and luteinization in non-primates. J Soc Gynecol Investig. 2001;8(1):S21-S23. doi:10.1016/s1071-5576(00)00100-3
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