I dont have experience so Im not 100% sure about these answers but:
a) You leave them until they unlock. Seperating them can be harmful
b) Im pretty sure when she is ovulating is the best time for her to be with the male so she gets pregnant. I didnt think a lock was necesary for her to ovulate...
c) follicles can help get the male interested in breeding. generally i think its more the male has to be interested in breeding, not so much the female...