The diameter of a mature follicle is 18 to 25 mm. the size of the follicle reflects the degree of development of the egg, thus predicting the ovulation period as well as the chances of conception.
Based on the follicle’s morphology, size, growth rate, and histologic features, the follicle’s growth process can be divided into four stages, including the initiating follicle, the pre-sinus follicle, the sinus follicle, and the pre-ovulatory follicle. After entering puberty, the follicle advances from autonomous development to maturation, which depends on gonadotropin stimulation.
Three to eleven follicles develop each month during a woman’s reproductive years, and after recruitment and selection, only one dominant follicle is usually able to fully mature and eliminate an egg. In a woman’s lifetime, only 400 to 500 follicles develop and ovulate, accounting for only about 0.1% of the total.
Consultation with a medical professional is recommended for specific cases.