The ovaries are a pair of reproductive organs that are located one on each side of the uterus. Each ovary is about the size of an almond and is responsible for the production of eggs and female hormones such as estrogen and progesterone that control the function of certain organs. During ovulation, the ovary releases an egg that may become fertilized by a sperm for pregnancy to occur. When the women go through menopause, the ovaries stop releasing the eggs and stops producing the hormones. There are various problems that can affect the ovaries and some of them include ovarian cancer, ovarian cysts, premature ovarian failure, ovarian torsion and hypogonadism.
Ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer is one of the common forms of cancer affecting women particularly those who have been through the menopause. The common symptoms of ovarian cancer include feeling bloated, a swollen abdomen, feeling full quickly after eating, having the need to urinate frequently and a discomfort of the abdomen or the pelvic area. The symptoms usually may not be evident in the initial stage and when they do occur, it can be difficult to recognize as it appears to be similar to other common conditions. Although the exact cause of cancer is not known, some of the risk factors include being over the age of 50, a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, hormone replacement therapy and endometriosis. The treatment for ovarian cancer includes a surgery to remove both or a single ovary, the womb and the fallopian tubes. Other treatment option includes chemotherapy that destroys the cancerous cells using drugs.
Ovarian cysts
These are the fluid-filled sacs that can grow in or on the ovaries which appear to be a common condition without presenting any symptoms. Most of the women in their lives can develop the cysts which can normally disappear within a few months without the need for treatment. However, the symptoms may become evident if the cysts rupture, are very large or can block the blood supply to the ovaries. In such case, the symptoms can include irregular or heavy periods, bloated or swollen tummy, frequent urination and difficulty getting pregnant. The treatment is usually based on the size of the cyst and if it presents any symptoms. If the cysts are suspected to be potentially cancerous, they may be surgically removed.
Hypogonadism
This is the condition that causes the decreased function of the ovaries and the production of hormones that are important for the sexual development during puberty. There are two forms of this condition; primary hypogonadism and central hypogonadism. Primary hypogonadism develops because of a problem with the ovary that can be the result of an abnormality of the pituitary or hypothalamic glands. The central hypogonadism leads to the low levels of LH and FSH hormones that are released by the pituitary gland. The symptom of hypogonadism is the delayed sexual development, infertility, loss of libido, vaginal dryness and hot flashes. This condition can usually be treated with hormone replacement therapy that can also help restore fertility.
References
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Cancer-of-the-ovary/Pages/Introduction.aspx
https://medlineplus.gov/ovariandisorders.html
http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cyst/Pages/Introduction.aspx
https://www.ucsfhealth.org/conditions/hypogonadism/
