Oocytes

Oocytes are the female reproductive cells, also known as egg cells or ova. They develop in the ovaries and are essential for reproduction because, during fertilization, a sperm cell merges with an oocyte to form a fertilized egg, which can develop into a baby. Oocytes are unique because females are born with a limited number of them, and they mature over time, usually one or more each menstrual cycle. They contain the genetic material from the mother and are crucial in passing traits to the offspring. Their health and quality influence fertility and reproductive health.