In addition to producing estrogens and progestins, the main function of the ovaries is to generate and store eggs, and they have more!
Do you know what the function of the ovaries is? Well, generally speaking, the ovaries are two glands present in the female reproductive system and are responsible for the production of sex hormones, estrogens and progestins. Furthermore, another function of the ovaries is that they generate and store eggs.
The production of eggs, also called female gametes, is called oogenesis or ovulogenesis and begins in the embryonic phase.
However, the ovary has specific characteristics and can be affected by some diseases, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Furthermore, throughout our article, we will explain everything you need to know about the function of the ovaries, ovulation, its main characteristics and also about endocrine disease (PCOS).
Function of the ovaries
In summary, the ovaries have 2 functions, namely:
- Production of female sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone;
- Generation and storage of eggs.
Characteristics
The ovaries are two glands, similar in size to an almond, measuring 3 cm long, 1.5 cm wide and 1 cm thick. Like the uterus and fallopian tubes, they are located in the pelvic wall, on both sides of the uterus, below the fallopian tubes.
Furthermore, there are two regions located in the ovary, the cortex, where the follicles, corpus luteum and corpora albicans are located, and also the medulla, which is rich in blood vessels and is formed by loose connective tissue.
What is ovulation?
During the menstrual cycle, every 28 days, one of the ovaries is stimulated to develop and produces an egg. Thus, this process is called ovulation.
However, if this egg is fertilized by a sperm, it gives rise to an embryo and generates pregnancy. However, if there is no fertilization, the egg goes through a process of degeneration.
Therefore, it is important to highlight the entire ovulation process. First, two important hormones are produced, LH and FSH, which stimulate the release of a germ cell from the ovary.
This cell matures in about 12 to 14 days and, when it ruptures, it releases the oocyte, called the corpus luteum, which is responsible for producing hormones for the maintenance of the endometrium.
What is the fertile period?
The fertile period is the time in the menstrual cycle where a woman is most likely to get pregnant, as it happens during ovulation. This entire process occurs 12 to 16 days before the start of menstruation.
Furthermore, if you want to understand better about the fertile period, take the opportunity to check out: Fertile days – Definition, period and main questions.
Sexual Hormones
Sex hormones begin to be produced during puberty, marking the beginning of each woman's fertile life. They are responsible for the entire reproductive process.
Furthermore, hormones produce the maturation of ovarian follicles and the release of the secondary oocyte, which are related to the hormones FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone).
Hormones produced by the ovaries
- Estrogens: Estrogen is the hormone responsible for controlling ovulation and also for the development of the female body. However, there are three main estrogens: estrone, estradiol and estriol.
- Progestins: Progestins are responsible for preparing the uterus for pregnancy. They stimulate the growth of the endometrium and breasts for breastfeeding. Furthermore, this hormone acts in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease that can affect 5% to 10% of women. This disease generally occurs due to excessive production of male hormones in the female body.
Among the main symptoms of PCOS are the irregular menstrual cycle, difficulty getting pregnant, acne, weight gain and increased development of body hair.
To diagnose a polycystic ovary, it is necessary to undergo imaging tests, such as ultrasound. Treatment varies between patients, so consult a specialist doctor before using any medications.
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Sources: Biologia Net, Toda Matéria, Dráuzio Varella.
Image sources: Ratraca Livre, Hospital São Matheus, Tua saúde, PngTree, Chinese Table, Biologia Net, Dr Consulta.
