Ovary

Ovaries (singular: Ovary) are organs found in female organisms. Ovaries are part of the reproductive system needed to reproduce sexually. 

Most vertebrate animals have two ovaries. Birds usually have only one working ovary; snakes have one ovary in front of the other. The ovaries are similar to testicles in male organisms.

 Anatomy 

Ovaries are shaped like ovals. They are around 3 cm by 1.5 cm by 1.5 cm. The ovaries are found in the side walls of the pelvis. 

Each ovary is attached to a fallopian tube, each of which is attached to the uterus. Usually each ovary takes turns releasing eggs every month.

 Uses 


Ovaries have two purposes. They produce female sex hormones that help puberty take place. Ovaries also produce ova (also called "egg cells"), which are the female reproductive cells.

 In menstruation 

During menstruation, an ovum is released from the ovary and enters one of the fallopian tubes. There, the ovum can be fertilised. Ovaries have a certain number of eggs in them; when eggs stop being released, this is the start of the menopause. During this time, female hormones stop being produced.

Related pages
 Cervix
 Female reproductive system
 Vagina

 Other websites 
 Merck Online Medical Library: Female Reproductive System

Category:Anatomy of the female reproductive system
Category:Female reproductive system
Category:Pregnancy and childbirth