Female Reproductive System

Histologically, ovaries consist of:
The germinal epithelium—covers the surface
The tunica albuginea—capsule of dense irregular connective tissue below the germinal epithelium
The ovarian cortex—below the tunica albuginea. Consists of ovarian follicles and stromal cells.
The ovarian medulla—connective tissue, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels and nerves.

Ovarian follicles—contain oocytes in various stages of development, follicular cells and granulosa cells.
A mature (graafian) follicle is ready to rupture and expel the secondary oocyte.
A corpus luteum develops after ovulation when the empty follicle produces progesterone, estrogens, inhibin and relaxin.