REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS IN THE FEMALE. 307 



Graafian follicle is thus a sphere that measures from 

 one-twentieth to one-sixth of an inch in diameter, 

 and lies immediately beneath the surface epithelium 

 of the ovary. 



The manner in which such follicles rupture has 

 been variously explained. One rational theory is 



Fig. 223. From ovary of young girl (Bohm and Davidoff). 



that the pressure of the accumulated follicular liquid 

 obliterates the blood-vessels in the theca vasculosa 

 next to the ovarian epithelium. This establishes a 

 point of least resistance at this place, the follicle 

 ruptures, and the follicular fluid with the ovum is 

 discharged upon the surface of the ovary, the 



