2-6

[Previous] [Next]

2-6. THE OVARIES

a. Each ovary, situated at the side of the uterus, lies within a depression (ovarian fossa) on the lateral wall of the pelvic cavity on the posterior surface of the broad ligament. The ovary is attached to the posterior surface of the broad ligament by the mesovarium and is kept in place by the ovarian ligament. The ovary, a small, flattened, almond-shaped organ, is composed of an outer layer, known as the cortex, and an inner vascular layer, known as the medulla. The cortex contains ovarian (graafian) follicles in different stages of maturity. After ovulation, the corpus luteum is developed within the ovary by reorganization of the graafian follicles. The medulla, lying within the cortex, consists of connective tissue containing nerves, blood, and lymph vessels. The ovary is covered by epithelium, not by peritoneum.

b. The ovaries are homologous with the testes of the male. They produce ova after puberty and also function as endocrine glands, producing hormones. The estrogenic hormone is secreted by the ovarian follicle. It controls the development of the secondary sexual characteristics and initiates growth of the lining of the uterus during the menstrual cycle. The progesterone hormone, which is secreted by the corpus luteum, is essential for the implantation of the fertilized ovum and for the development of the embryo.

[Previous] [Next]