The ovaries are two small glands, located on either side of a
woman's uterus, that are part of the female reproductive system. The ovaries
produce female sex hormones and store and release eggs (ova), which can develop
into embryos if fertilized by a male's sperm.
The female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) help control
the menstrual cycle, breast development, and other functions. Approximately
once a month, about 2 weeks before a woman's next period is due, one of her
ovaries releases an egg (ovulation).