An ovarian follicle, also known as an oocyte or immature egg, is a fluid-filled sac found in the ovaries that are a part of the female reproductive system. Every month a mature egg is discharged from a follicle during the process of ovulation. Each cycle, many follicles start to mature, but only one will typically ovulate as an egg (rarely, more than one egg is released, increasing the potential for twins). The follicle develops into a corpus luteum following ovulation.
At any stage of follicular development, the ovarian and antral follicles that do not deliver a mature egg undergo a process known as atresia in which they disintegrate. Ovarian follicles will dissolve in about 99% of cases and never mature sufficiently to deliver an egg.
During fertility treatments, the growth and development of ovarian and antral follicles are monitored. The purpose of superovulation, which is done during IVF treatment, is to encourage the ovaries to produce several mature follicles simultaneously. An antral follicle count (AFC), commonly known as an ultrasound exam, could be carried out as a part of fertility testing. This examination is performed to gauge ovarian reserves.
Stress can be caused by the size and number of follicles. It can be very challenging to deal with a poor ovarian reserve diagnosis, or it might leave you wondering what happens next. Don’t give up on your desire to have a parent because you have a decreased ovarian reserve; there are treatments available to assist you. Just remember that it is possible to conceive while suffering from this disease, so don’t give up hope. With your remaining egg supply, your healthcare professional can develop a treatment strategy that aids in your pregnancy goals. Your doctor might advise IVF using donor eggs, a route that not all couples are able to or want to follow.
Although follicle counts are a significant predictor of fertility, keep in mind that a single figure does not define you or even accurately forecast your future fertility. Consult your doctor if you’re unsure about what your follicle counts signify. Never be reluctant to get a second opinion on the findings of a fertility treatment or diagnostic. And don’t forget to ask for help. Testing and treatment for infertility are stressful. You don’t have to accomplish this by yourself.
Source: https://pregajunction.com/blog/how-ovarian-and-antral-follicles-relate-to-fertility/
