PHYSICAL WELLNESS

your hormone and egg factories

THE OVARIES

The ovaries are like dual-purpose factories in the female reproductive system. They produce eggs for reproduction and hormones that regulate cycles, fertility, and overall health.

  • Produce estrogen and progesterone to regulate menstrual cycles and reproductive health

  • Release eggs (ova) for potential fertilization

  • Influence libido, mood, and energy levels

  • Support secondary sexual characteristics like breast development and body fat distribution

  • Work with the endocrine system to maintain hormonal balance

  • Stores all the eggs (ova) a female will ever have (present at birth).

  • Releases one mature egg during ovulation each month (typically alternating between ovaries).

  • Provides the site where follicles mature before egg release.

  • Coordinates with the fallopian tubes so the egg can travel toward possible fertilization.

  • Supports menstrual cycle timing and fertility.

THE OVARY BASICS

Common Terms + Simple Definitions

Here’s a mini glossary for ovary related words you’ll see throughout the site:

Ovaries - Female reproductive organs producing eggs and hormones

Estrogen - Hormone regulating female sexual development, cycles, and bone health

Progesterone - Hormone regulating menstrual cycle and preparing the body for pregnancy

Ovulation - Release of an egg from the ovary

Follicle - Small sac in the ovary where an egg develops

Ovum (Egg) - Female reproductive cell released during ovulation.

Follicle - Sac within the ovary that contains and nurtures an immature egg.

Ovulation - The release of a mature egg from the ovary.

Corpus Luteum - Structure formed from the follicle after ovulation that produces hormones to support early pregnancy.

Ovarian Reserve - The total number of eggs available in the ovaries.

WHAT THE OVARIES WORKS WITH

THE OVARIES + OTHER SYSTEMS

  1. Hypothalamus & Pituitary → Control hormone production and egg release (FSH and LH)

  2. Uterus & Fallopian Tubes → Receive eggs and support pregnancy

  3. Brain/Nervous System → Hormones influence mood, energy, and sexual function

  4. Muscles & Bones → Respond to estrogen for bone density and strength

  5. Circulatory System → Delivers hormones throughout the body

  6. Fallopian Tubes → Transport egg from ovary to uterus.

  7. Uterus → Prepares lining to receive a fertilized egg (or sheds if not fertilized).

  8. Vagina/Cervix → Provide pathway for sperm to reach the egg.

  9. FSH & LH (from Pituitary) → Stimulate egg maturation and trigger ovulation.

HealthY OVARIES…

Healthy ovaries support fertility, menstrual balance, and hormone regulation. Good nutrition, exercise, stress management, and regular checkups help maintain ovarian function. Healthy ovaries are essential for fertility, hormone balance, and overall reproductive well-being. They depend on good circulation, stable hormone signals, and protection from damage. Lifestyle choices like eating a nutrient-rich diet, supporting liver health (for hormone processing), managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight can all support ovarian function. Regular check-ups and awareness of conditions like PCOS or endometriosis also help keep ovaries functioning optimally.