What is the role of the ovary in egg production?

The ovary's role in egg production is to develop, mature and release eggs during the menstrual cycle.

The ovaries are a pair of small, almond-shaped organs located on either side of the uterus in females. They are a crucial part of the female reproductive system and play a vital role in egg production, also known as oogenesis. The process of egg production begins before a female is even born. During foetal development, the ovaries of a female foetus produce millions of immature eggs or oocytes. These eggs remain in a dormant state until puberty.

At puberty, the pituitary gland in the brain starts to release hormones that stimulate the ovaries. Each month, under the influence of these hormones, a few of these dormant eggs start to mature. This process takes place in small fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries called follicles. Usually, only one egg reaches full maturity each month. This mature egg is then released from the ovary in a process known as ovulation.

The released egg is captured by the fimbriae, the fringe-like ends of the fallopian tubes, and transported to the uterus. If the egg is fertilised by a sperm during its journey, it implants in the uterus and develops into a foetus. If not, the egg is shed along with the lining of the uterus during menstruation.

The ovaries also produce the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle, prepare the uterus for pregnancy, and are responsible for the secondary sexual characteristics seen in females at puberty. Therefore, the ovaries not only produce eggs but also create the optimal conditions for a potential pregnancy.