The ovaries are normally walnut-sized organs located on either side of the uterus. They have a number of functions, including making eggs each month, and making hormones. The ovaries respond to hormones that come from the brain, called gonadotropins. These hormones lead to release of an egg each month, usually in-between menstrual periods. It is surprising to many to learn that the ovary produces a cyst every month! These cysts form as an egg is released and can normally be the size of a golf ball. The ovaries also produce their own set of hormones. These include estrogen, progesterone, and androstenedione (a type of "male" hormone). There are a number of gynecologic conditions that can affect the ovaries. These include cysts, cancer, scar tissue, and twisting of the ovary around it's blood supply (called torsion). Fortunately, almost all cysts that form on the ovary are non-cancerous. However, because ovarian cancer can strike 1:70 women, and because it can be deadly, gynecologists worry about ovarian cysts. The diagnosis of these cysts usually requires a good pelvic exam and perhaps a pelvic ultrasound (also called a sonogram). If necessary, surgery is sometimes required to take a better look at the ovaries. The photos below were all taken during surgery.
Click on the description below to see the JPG photo.
Normal Ovaries and Uterus
Normal Ovary- Closeup View
Ruptured Endometriosis Cyst
Corpus luteum cyst-unruptured
Ovarian torsion
Ovarian Cancer
Dermoid Cyst