Biology - Follicle Development (or lack of) During Pregnancy?

[811 trolley]

Okay, so I'm doing these 'perception check' sheets that my bio teacher assigned for us about the female reproductive system & pregnancy. I haven't had much trouble until this question. I have an idea about what the answer is, but I would like to double check it with some of you!

Question: "Explain how further development of new follicles in the ovary is inhibited."

I'm assuming it has to do with the decline in the production of follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH). GnRH activates the pituitary gland (posterior, right?) which releases FSH and LH. FSH goes to the ovary by the blood and then follicle development is stimulated. The follicles then secrete estrogen, which initiates the development of the endometrium. As the levels of estrogen rise, a negative feedback 'message' is sent to the pituitary gland to 'turn off' secretions of FSH. This is the follicular phase, then ovulation occurs, then remaining follicular cells turn into corpus luteum because of LH. The corpus luteum then secretes estrogen and progesterone, and it goes on.
But what prevents new follicles from growing? Is it just the stop in production of FSH? Or is there more?

Help is appreciated!

 

[Nino MMP]

Yes, the stop in production of FSH is what inhibits further development of new follicles in the ovary. The decrease in FSH levels will cause follicles that have not yet reached maturity to degenerate, preventing further development of new follicles. Additionally, the corpus luteum (which is formed from the remains of the ruptured follicle) secretes progesterone, which has an inhibitory effect on the release of gonadotropins (FSH and LH) and therefore prevents further follicle maturation.

 

[Blueshift5]

I can confirm that your understanding of follicle development and its inhibition during pregnancy is mostly correct. The production of FSH is indeed inhibited during pregnancy due to the negative feedback mechanism caused by rising estrogen levels. This prevents new follicles from developing. Additionally, the high levels of progesterone produced by the corpus luteum also play a role in inhibiting FSH production and therefore, follicle development. This is important because during pregnancy, the body focuses on maintaining the existing pregnancy rather than producing new eggs for potential fertilization. I hope this helps clarify any doubts you may have had.