Ovaries

Question 1

Three main functions of the ovaries

Answer 1

1. Produce immature female gametes/oocytes
2. Secrete female sex hormones, estrogens progesterone
3. Secrete inhibin, involved in the feedback control of the pitUitary FSH production

Question 2

Ovarian ligament

Answer 2

Extends from the uterus, near the attachment of the uterine tube, to the medial surface of the ovary.

Question 3

Suspensory ligament / infundibulopelvic

Answer 3

Extends from the lateral surface of the ovary past the open end of the uterine tube to the pelvic wall.

Question 4

Major blood vessels (of the ovaries) in the suspensory ligament

Answer 4

Ovarian artery and ovarian vein

Question 5

Ovarian Hilum

Answer 5

1. Where these vessels are connected to the ovary

2. Where the ovary attaches to the mesovarium

Question 6

Structure of a typical ovary

Answer 6

1. 5 cm long, 2.5 cm wide, 8mm thick
2. Weighs 6-8 grams
3. Pink or yellowish

Question 7

The visceral peritoneum, or germinal epithelium

Answer 7

Covers the surface of each ovary and consist of a layer of columnar epithelial cells

Question 8

Tunica albuginea

Answer 8

Dense connective tissue layer below the germinal epithelium

Question 9

Stroma

Answer 9

Interior tissues of the ovary

Divided into a superficial cortex and a deeper medulla

Question 10

Female gametes are produced where in the ovary

Answer 10

Superficial cortex