A dominant follicle in the left ovary is not a cause for concern; it is a normal, healthy part of the female menstrual cycle. This fluid-filled sac within the ovary contains a developing egg, and its role is fundamental to ovulation, the process by which a mature egg is released.
Understanding the Dominant Follicle
The dominant follicle develops through a precise biological process within the ovary. Each menstrual cycle begins with several follicles growing in response to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland. As these follicles enlarge and produce estrogen, one outgrows the others, becoming dominant. This dominant follicle continues to mature, and its increasing estrogen levels signal the body to reduce FSH, causing other developing follicles to recede.
The dominant follicle eventually releases a mature egg during ovulation. It indicates an optimal reproductive cycle, essential for natural conception. Before ovulation, a mature dominant follicle reaches a diameter between 18 to 25 millimeters. After releasing the egg, its remnants transform into a corpus luteum, which produces hormones crucial for potential pregnancy.
Does the Ovary Side Matter?
The specific ovary, whether left or right, from which a dominant follicle develops holds no particular significance for health or fertility. Ovulation alternates between the left and right ovaries each menstrual cycle. However, it is also normal for the dominant follicle to originate from the same ovary for several consecutive cycles.
While the right ovary may ovulate slightly more often, this difference is negligible. The functionality and healthy development of the follicle are what matter, not its precise location within either ovary.
When a Follicle Might Need Attention
While a dominant follicle is a normal part of the menstrual cycle, certain follicle-like structures or their behavior may warrant medical evaluation. For instance, a follicle that does not rupture and release its egg can continue to grow, forming a follicular cyst.
Another type, a corpus luteum cyst, can form if the opening where the egg was released seals off and fluid accumulates within the remaining follicle. These functional cysts are common, benign, and often resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles.
These cysts do not cause symptoms, but if they grow large or rupture, they can lead to pelvic pain, pressure, bloating, or changes in menstrual periods. More serious, though rare, complications can include severe pain from a ruptured cyst or ovarian torsion, where the ovary twists on its blood supply.
Medical attention should be sought for sudden, severe pelvic pain, especially if accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, or dizziness, as these symptoms could indicate a medical emergency.