The Role Of Ovulation In Female Reproduction

Ovulation is a process that most of us have heard of, but few of us understand exactly what it entails and what the role of ovulation is in female reproduction. Therefore, in this article you will learn what factors ovulation depends on and what happens before, during and after it takes place.

The hormonal and anatomical factors it involves vary widely and many elements can affect them. In such cases, fertility problems can occur. So if you suspect such a problem, it is important to go to a doctor as soon as possible.

What is ovulation and what factors does it depend on?

Ovulation is a complex process that involves the release of oocytes from the ovaries during each menstrual cycle. This process depends on both anatomical and hormonal factors. It is not a procedure limited to the ovaries. It actually involves many substances that also act on other areas of the female reproductive system.

From an anatomical point of view , ovulation occurs from structures known as ovarian follicles. These are the female gonads and there is one on each side of the uterus. When the follicles rupture, they release a cell that will gradually turn into an egg.

There are many hormonal factors, and from a functional point of view, the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis is very important. All of these organs are glands that are capable of releasing hormones that participate directly in the menstrual cycle. Some are also relevant during pregnancy.

What is the role of ovulation and how does it work?

We explain what happens before, during and after ovulation. Throughout this process, the role of hormones is fundamental, especially those we described in the axis above.

Before

Did you know that girls from birth have millions of immature gametes? This is, of course, a goal of preserving the fertility of the species as well as possible. However, all of these cells can never become useful.

As the years go by, most of these cells therefore undergo a degeneration or death. So only a few oocytes that are able to develop properly remain in each ovary. In most cases, however, the amount is sufficient in the fertile life.

Below

As women enter reproductive age, the effects of hormones become apparent. These are produced during each menstrual cycle and the pre-ovulation phase occurs thanks to an increase in the concentration of the luteinizing hormones (LH) and follicle stimulating hormones (FSH) in the blood.

The pituitary gland releases these substances due to stimulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus. The action of LH and FSH induces changes in the ovaries, which will gradually lead to rupture of the ovarian follicle.

This last process is what we actually refer to as ovulation. The oocyte will gradually move down through the ovaries and “wait” for the arrival of sperm for fertilization.

After

Once the follicle follicle has completed the release of the oocyte, the process of formation of the corpus luteum begins gradually on the surface of the ovary. This is far from a remnant of the ovulation process, but an active structure that is able to secrete the hormones that are important for a possible pregnancy.

The latter are progesterone and estrogen, which are very important in preparing the uterus for fetal growth in the coming weeks should fertilization occur. As you can see, the role of ovulation is crucial when it comes to female reproduction.

Concluding recommendations regarding the role of ovulation in reproduction

Due to its complexity, ovulation can be affected by a number of factors, such as polycystic ovary syndrome. For this reason, it is important to have adequate gynecological health, especially when you want to have children. If you are in doubt about this, it is best to make an appointment with your gynecologist and have healthy habits.