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Specific Cancers: Ovarian Cancer
Overview

Anatomy of the Ovary

There are 2 ovaries in a woman’s pelvis, located on either side of the uterus.   An ovary is small and looks like an almond.

The main roles of ovaries are to make female hormones and store eggs. Every month during a woman’s reproductive years, an ovary releases an egg. The egg travels to the uterus through a fallopian tube. The ovaries also make most of the female hormones, including estrogen and progesterone. These hormones control the development of certain parts of a female, such as the breasts, body shape, and body hair. They also control the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

(Click picture to enlarge) Anatomy of the Ovaries

 

Online Medical Reviewer: Herzog, Thomas J. MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Martin, Virginia A. RN, MSN, AOCN
Date Last Reviewed: 2/6/2006
Date Last Modified: 4/20/2006
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