Munasarjad

Munasarjad, or ovaries, are a pair of almond-shaped female reproductive glands located in the pelvic cavity on either side of the uterus. They are essential for both gamete production and hormone synthesis.

Each ovary is connected to the uterus by the ovarian ligament and to the pelvic wall by the suspensory ligament; they are supported within the peritoneal space by the broad ligament. The organ comprises a outer cortex and an inner medulla. The cortex contains ovarian follicles at various stages of development, while the medulla houses blood vessels and nerves. The ovarian surface is covered by a germinal epithelium, though the term germinal is historical rather than indicating active germ cell renewal after birth.

Functionally, ovaries perform two main roles. Oogenesis, the production and release of oocytes (eggs), occurs within the follicles; typically one oocyte completes maturation and is ovulated during each menstrual cycle. The remnants of the follicle form the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone and small amounts of estrogen to prepare the uterus for potential implantation. Endocrine activity includes the production of estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and influence secondary sexual characteristics and overall reproductive physiology. Hormonal signals from the pituitary gland (FSH and LH) regulate follicle development and ovulation.

Developmentally, ovaries arise from the gonadal ridge in the embryo and migrate to the pelvis. They receive blood supply from the ovarian arteries, with venous drainage primarily to the ovarian veins.

Clinical notes commonly address functional ovarian cysts, polycystic ovary syndrome, menopause-related changes, and ovarian cancer risk, all of which reflect the dual gametogenic and endocrine functions of the ovaries.