The ovaries are a pair of female reproductive organs that are located
in the pelvis.
They sit either side of the uterus
(womb) at the ends of the fallopian
tubes, and are usually about the size of an almond. The ovaries
perform two functions: to produce eggs and to make female hormones.
Each month, during the menstrual cycle, an egg matures in a cyst
on one of the ovaries. This egg is released (called ovulation) about 14
days before the next menstrual period is due. The egg is picked up by the
end of one of the fallopian
tubes and is carried to the uterus. If fertilisation occurs, it
happens in the tube. When the egg reaches the uterus,
and if it has been fertilised, it will implant into the lining of the
uterus. If it is unfertilised, it will pass through the vagina
during menstruation.
The ovaries are the main source of the female hormones oestrogen
and progesterone.
These hormones control the development of female body characteristics,
such as breasts, body shape, body hair, etc. They are also important in
regulating and controlling the menstrual cycle.
Cancer of the ovary is a disease in which some of the cells of the
ovary undergo changes and develop into cancers. There are three different
types of cancer of the ovary. These types differ depending on the cells
from which the cancer originates.
The three types of ovarian cancer are:
