Ovaries

Top of the page Ovaries The ovaries are two small glands, located on either side of a woman’s uterus, that are part of the female reproductive system. The ovaries produce female sex hormones and store and release eggs (ova), which can develop into embryos if fertilized by a male’s sperm. The female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) help control the menstrual cycle, breast development, and other functions. Approximately once a month, about 2 weeks before a woman’s next period is due, one of her ovaries releases an egg (ovulation). Current as of:
October 6, 2017Author:
Healthwise Staff Medical Review:
Adam Husney, MD – Family Medicine & Sarah A. Marshall, MD – Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD – Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito, MD – Family Medicine