What Happens to the Tertiary Follicle During Ovulation?
As the menstrual cycle progresses, one dominant tertiary follicle is selected for ovulation. Under the influence of an LH surge, the dominant follicle undergoes a series of changes that lead to the release of the mature oocyte. The follicle ruptures, and the oocyte, surrounded by its cumulus cell layer, is expelled into the fallopian tube where it may be fertilized by a sperm cell. The remnants of the ruptured follicle transform into the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone to support a potential pregnancy.
