What is the follicular phase?

The follicle has a certain follicular phase, which is time-limited, and when it occurs, our body will also have certain obvious symptoms. Everyone should be familiar with the physiological reaction of menstruation, but the follicular phase is still different from our menstrual cycle. Pregnancy is also related to the follicular phase. Many people may not understand the follicular phase, so what is the follicular phase?

The follicular phase starts from the day the last menstrual period stops and ends on the day of ovulation, lasting 10-12 days. During this stage, the granulosa cells of the follicles produce estrogen under the action of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Under the action of estrogen, the endometrium proliferates rapidly, blood vessels proliferate, and the glands widen and lengthen, but no secretion occurs. At the end of this period, the ovary releases an egg. If the egg matures but cannot be released for some reason, it will enter the next stage.

Generally speaking, the chance of pregnancy during the follicular phase is not high, but factors such as emotions, medications, environment, and climate can affect ovulation, resulting in early or unexpected ovulation, so having sex during the follicular phase is not 100% safe. Having sex during the follicular phase may lead to pregnancy, so women who do not want to have children are advised to raise their awareness of contraception and choose an effective contraceptive method that suits them and can be used for a long time, such as combined short-acting oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices, etc., to protect themselves and their fertility.

During this phase, the granulosa cells of the follicle produce estrogen under the action of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. Under the action of estrogen, the endometrium will rapidly proliferate, blood vessels will proliferate, and the glands will widen and lengthen, but they will not secrete. At the end of this period, the ovaries will ovulate. If the egg cell is mature but cannot be expelled for some reason, the next period will begin.