The Ovary is the site of oocyte formation and maturation within follicles.

Examine the section of ovary on this slide at low power and observe the number of variety of follicles present. Most follicles are located in the cortex surrounding the medulla. With higher power, identify the capsule with the simple cuboidal surface epithelium and dense irregular supporting tissue stroma. Part of the oviduct and well-vascularized mesentery supporting the ovary are also present here. Click image at right for expanded view.

On the ovary slide, identify follicles at various stages of development. Note the key features that characterize each stage:

• Primordial follicles
• Primary follicles
• Secondary follicles
• Mature (Graafian) follicles
  
   

Next are some specific structures you should be able to identify.