The ovaries are the female reproductive organs, and they're responsible for producing sex hormones and eggs to be fertilized. Having healthy ovaries is therefore very important to ensuring a proper menstrual cycle and healthy reproductive function. However some conditions may affect the normal size of ovaries, making them larger and signalling a possible condition that requires attention. As such it is important to know the normal size of these organs. At OneHowTo.com we explain what size normal ovaries should be.
Where are the ovaries and what is their function
Every woman has a pair of ovaries which are located on each side of the uterus, and their function is very important in the body. The ovaries are responsible for releasing an egg with every menstrual cycle, so that each woman has a period of fertile days in which it will be possible to fertilise the egg and conceive a new human life. When this process does not occur, the egg is discarded along with the endometrium in what is known as menstruation. Find out more on how ovulation works at OneHowTo.
In addition, the ovaries are responsible for secreting progesterone and oestrogen, two important basic female hormones for the development of women's sexual characteristics and reproductive system.
What size should normal ovaries be
Normal ovaries should be around 3 cm x 1.5 cm (1.1 in x 0.5 in) each, or 30 mm x 15 mm, which is roughly the size of a walnut. The size and condition of the ovaries can be determined by an ultrasound test, in which it is also possible to detect some of the conditions that could be affecting them.
Ovaries that are larger than normal
If after a scan the result indicates that your ovaries are larger than normal, your doctor should carry out the appropriate tests to determine the cause of this enlargement. This problem is usually caused by the presence of ovarian cysts, a condition that needs medical attention and should be supervised by a specialist in order to regulate menstrual cycles and ensure that you are healthy.
Remember to have a gynaecological examination every year: it is very important for your intimate health.
This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.
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