What are the functions of the ovaries?

The ovaries have powerful functions, the most typical of which are reproductive and endocrine functions. If there is a problem with the ovarian function, it will directly affect the reproductive health of women. Therefore, it is also important to understand the factors that affect ovarian function.

1. Reproductive function :

Except during pregnancy and lactation, the ovaries of women of childbearing age undergo cyclical changes and release eggs once a month, with ovulation usually occurring on the 14th to 16th day of the menstrual cycle. The egg cell is secreted and discharged from the follicles in the ovary. Among the development of several follicles, usually only one matures, so only one egg matures every month. The egg survives for several hours after ovulation. At this time, if the egg enters the fallopian tube and meets the sperm, it will be fertilized and become a pregnant egg (fertilized egg).

2. Endocrine function:

The cyclical changes of the ovaries are accompanied by the secretion of three sex hormones, namely estrogen, progesterone and a very small amount of androgen, which play an important role in the body.

3. What factors affect ovarian function?

The ovaries are the female gonads, and their normal functions are affected by the cerebral cortex, hypothalamus and pituitary gland. We know that the pituitary gland secretes two hormones that affect ovarian function, one is called follicle-stimulating hormone and the other is called luteinizing hormone. The main function of the former is to promote the development and maturation of follicles, and the main function of the latter is to promote ovulation. The hypothalamus contains releasing factors from various endocrine glands and regulates the secretion of pituitary gonadotropins. However, the feedback effect of ovarian function also has a certain impact on the cerebral cortex, hypothalamus and pituitary gland. From this it can be seen that when the internal and external environment of the body changes, causing obstruction in any link between the cerebral cortex, hypothalamus, pituitary gland and ovaries, it can lead to ovarian dysfunction.