Ovary
Gland producing hormones and releasing egg cells.
The ovary (from Latin ōvārium 'egg') is a gland in the human female reproductive system that produces female sex hormones and controls the development and release of egg cells (female gametes). The paired ovaries are located on either side of the uterus, connected via the fallopian tubes, and are held in place by the ovarian ligament and the suspensory ligament of the ovary. The ovary progresses through many stages beginning in the prenatal period through menopause.
- field
- Human female reproductive system
- known_for
- Production of female sex hormones and release of egg cells
- structure
- Each ovary measures around 3 cm by 1.5 cm by 1 cm
- location
- One on either side of the uterus, in the ovarian fossa
Lore & Background
The ovary is surrounded by a capsule called the tunica albuginea and has an outer cortex and inner medulla. The cortex contains ovarian follicles, which include structures such as the cumulus oophorus, membrana granulosa, corona radiata, zona pellucida, and primary oocyte. The medulla contains blood vessels and lymphatics, and follicles are usually not found there. The surface is covered by ovarian surface epithelium, a simple cuboidal-to-columnar mesothelium.
Reader's Guide
The ovary's primary functions are gamete production and hormone secretion. At puberty, it begins secreting increasing levels of hormones, including estrogen, androgen, inhibin, and progestogen, which drive the development of secondary sex characteristics and regulate the menstrual cycle. Ovulation typically occurs in one ovary each cycle, releasing an oocyte after a surge of luteinizing hormone. The remaining follicle becomes the corpus luteum, secreting progesterone to prepare the uterus for implantation. Ovarian aging leads to a decline in follicle count, with menopause occurring around age 52. DNA damage repair mechanisms, particularly homologous recombinational repair involving genes such as BRCA1, are implicated in ovarian aging. Testing methods like measuring AMH levels and antral follicle count can predict ovarian aging. Clinical issues include ovarian cysts and polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, which can cause cycle irregularities.
Did You Know?
- Each ovary measures around 3 cm in length by 1.5 cm wide and is 1 cm thick.
- The ovarian fossa, where the ovary sits, measures around 4 cm x 3 cm x 2 cm.
- Women with an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 gene have an increased risk of earlier menopause, though it is not guaranteed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ovary?
The ovary is a small gland in the female reproductive system responsible for producing sex hormones and releasing mature egg cells. Its name derives from the Latin word 'ovarium,' which simply means 'egg.'
Where is the ovary located in the body?
One ovary sits on each side of the uterus, nestled in a depression called the ovarian fossa. They connect to the fallopian tubes and are anchored by the ovarian ligament and the suspensory ligament of the ovary.
What are the ovary's main functions?
The ovary produces female sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, and it governs the maturation and release of egg cells during ovulation. These two roles work together to regulate the menstrual cycle and support potential pregnancy.
How large is a typical ovary?
Each ovary measures roughly 3 cm long, 1.5 cm wide, and 1 cm thick—about the size of an almond. They come in a pair, one on each side of the reproductive tract.
How does the ovary change over a woman's lifetime?
The ovary passes through distinct developmental stages from before birth all the way through menopause. Its activity peaks during reproductive years and gradually declines until hormonal production and egg release cease entirely.
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