As ovarian follicles deplete, what is the consequence for follicle growth?

As ovarian follicles deplete, the functional reserve of follicles reduces, leading to hormonal changes that affect the growth and development of remaining follicles. The primary hormones involved are follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen, both of which play crucial roles in the maturation of ovarian follicles. With fewer follicles available to respond to hormonal signals, the overall stimulation for follicle growth diminishes, leading to a restraint in follicular development.

This effect can manifest as irregular or less frequent ovulation cycles and may contribute to the onset of menopause, as the body transitions away from the reproductive phase. In this context, the depletion of ovarian follicles results in a reduced capacity for the ovaries to produce mature follicles, which ultimately restrains follicle growth rather than stimulating it.

While it's possible that some follicles may still attempt to grow, the overall trend is one of restraint due to the lack of sufficient stimulation and the declining ovarian reserve. This is why the notion that follicle growth is restrained effectively captures the physiological changes occurring as ovarian follicles deplete.