Reproductive Glands
Anatomy of the ovaries: A woman's ovaries are located on both sides of the uterus, below the opening of the fallopian
Function of the ovaries: In addition to producing egg cells, the ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone , which affect many of the female characteristics and reproductive functions. The levels of these hormones secreted is controlled by gonadotropic hormones produced by the pituitary gland. The ovaries also contain the egg cells necessary reproductionfor
What is estrogen? Estrogen is a group of hormones that play an important role in the normal sexual and reproductive development in women. They are also called sex hormones. The woman's ovaries produce most estrogen hormones, although the adrenal glands also produce small amounts of the hormones. In addition to regulating the menstrual cycle, estrogen affects the reproductive tract, the urinary tract, the heart and blood vessels, bones, breasts, skin, hair, mucous membranes, pelvic muscles, and the brain. Secondary sexual characteristics, such as pubic and armpit hair also begin to grow when estrogen levels rise. Many organ systems, including the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems, and the brain are affected by estrogen
High values: High values may be caused by: Ovarian stimulation used to treat infertility (for example before in vitro fertilization) Cancer, such as cancer of the ovaries, testicles, or adrenal glands. .(cirrhosis) Serious liver disease A pregnancy with more than one fetus, such as twins or triplets. Early (precocious) puberty.
Low values: Low values may be caused by : Problems with ovarian function, which can be caused by a failure of an ovary to develop properly or because of a drop in (Turner's syndrome) pituitary gland activity. Anorexia nervosa. Menopause. A problem with the fetus or placenta during pregnancy.
What is Progesterone: This hormone is produced by the ovaries and by the placenta during pregnancy. Progesterone stimulates the thickening of the uterine lining anticipation of implantation of a fertilized egg in
High values : High progesterone values may be caused by: Pregnancy High values : High progesterone values may be caused by: Pregnancy. Cancer of the ovaries or adrenal glands. . molar pregnancy A Overproduction of hormones by the adrenal glands.
Low values: Low progesterone values may be caused by: Problems with ovulation. Possible miscarriage.