Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: I have been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). After treatment, the doctor instructed me to have intercourse on January 2nd and 3rd, and to return on the 4th for a check-up to see if the follicle has ruptured. Upon examination, it was found that the follicle had ruptured, but whether I can get pregnant depends on whether my period comes this month.Could you please explain what it means when the follicle ruptures? Does it mean that sperm has successfully entered the follicle, or does it indicate the start of ovulation? Is a ruptured follicle a sign that my fallopian tubes are open?
Doctor's answer:
During ovulation, due to the contraction of the fimbriae and the ovarian ligaments, the fimbriae cover the surface of the ovary. At the same time, the cilia of the fimbriae epithelial cells move towards the lumen of the fallopian tube, allowing the egg to enter the fallopian tube, which is then transported to the ampulla. Due to the thickening of the isthmus muscle layer and the dominance of estrogen during the ovulatory period, the activity of α-adrenergic receptors is enhanced, leading to muscle contraction. The lumen of the isthmus is relatively narrow, and the flow rate of the fallopian tube fluid is faster in the isthmus and slower in the ampulla, so the egg remains in the ampulla, waiting for fertilization.