Human Anatomy, Part 1 - K. A. Dyubenko, A. K. Kolomiytsev, Yu. B. Chaykovsky 2002

Special Section
Reproductive Systems, systemata genitalia - Female Reproductive System, systema genitale femininum
Internal Female Genital Organs, organa genitalia feminina interna - Ovary - Structure of the Ovary

The Ovary consists of the medulla ovarii, composed of Connective Tissue, branching Blood Vessels, and nerves, and the cortex ovarii, which contains A large number of primary ovarian follicles, folliculi ovarii primarii (Fig. 327). Externally, the ovary is covered by a Cytology/practical/45.html">Dense connective tissue capsule lined with a layer of inactive germinal epithelium. After birth, the Formation of primary follicles ceases in females. Upon reaching Puberty, primary follicles transform into mature forms known as vesicular ovarian follicles, folliculi ovarii vesiculosi. This process of primary follicle growth and transformation culminates in the rupture of the follicle and the release of the oocyte into the peritoneal cavity, where it enters the Uterine tube for final maturation. The emptied follicle fills with blood, subsequently shrinks, is replaced by connective tissue, and transforms into a corpus luteum. The corpus luteum temporarily secretes the hormone progesterone before undergoing regression. Cells of the regressing follicle also produce hormonal substances known as estrogens.

Class="center">

Fig. 327. Diagram of the microscopic Structure OF THE ovary (according to O. V. Volkova and Yu. K. Eletsky):

1 - surface epithelium; 2 - tunica albuginea; 3 - connective tissue stroma; 4 - primordial follicles; 5 - secondary follicles; 6 - tertiary follicles; 7 - follicular theca; 8 - atretic follicles; 9 - follicular fluid; 10 - oocyte; 11 - corpus albicans; 12 - blood vessels; 13 - cumulus oophorus

Ultrasound examination of the ovary. The Ovaries are readily visualized during transverse scanning as oval-shaped structures. Their dimensions average approximately 30 mm in length, 20 mm in thickness, and 25 mm in width (B. I. Zybin, 1982). They are located in the region adjacent to the lateral walls and the Fundus of the Uterus. Ultrasound imaging distinguishes a central homogeneous part of the ovary from a peripheral heterogeneous part. During the postmenopausal period, involutional changes occur, making their detection more difficult. Ultrasound monitoring is used to track follicular growth and maturation. As early as the 5th–7th day, a maturing follicle can be observed as a round, echonegative structure with a diameter of 8–10 mm, which enlarges to 19–22 mm by the middle of the Menstrual cycle.

Blood supply to the ovary is provided by the ovarian artery, a. ovarica. Venous drainage occurs via the ovarian Veins.

Lymphatic vessels carry Lymph from the ovaries to the internal iliac and lumbar Lymph Nodes.

Innervation of the ovary is supplied by Branches of the ovarian plexus, plexus ovaricus.