The ovaries are roughly the size of almonds and measure approximately 2 to 3 centimeters in length. These paired structures are situated within the pelvic region and are anchored by the mesovarium—a peritoneal extension that also connects them to the wider structure of the broad ligament. The support system extends to the suspensory ligament, housing blood and lymphatic vessels. In addition, the ovarian ligament tethers the ovaries to the uterus.
On the ovarian surface, a layer of cuboidal cells forms a protective epithelium just above a denser layer of connective tissue known as the tunica albuginea. Delving deeper, one encounters the cortex—the outer layer of the ovaries that houses the stroma, an intricate lattice of tissue that constitutes most of the ovarian interior. Within the stroma's peripheral region, oocytes undergo development. Each is nestled within a supportive complex called a follicle. The ovarian cortex is not only the site of follicle formation but also the place where the maturation process occurs. Beneath this is the medulla; which contains the extensive network of blood and lymphatic vessels as well as nerve fibers.
The ovaries are paired glands fastened on either side of the uterus with the broad, suspensory, and ovarian ligaments.
Each ovary features a hilum, where blood vessels and nerves enter and exit.
The histology of an ovary features several parts.
The ovarian mesothelium is the outermost layer of simple cuboidal or squamous epithelium.
The tunica albuginea is present beneath this layer and is made up of dense, irregular connective tissue.
The ovarian cortex is characterized by ovarian follicles encompassed by collagen fibers and stromal cells.
These ovarian follicles house the oocytes in different growth stages.
A mature or Graafian follicle is a large, fluid-filled follicle. During ovulation, it ruptures to release its secondary oocyte.
The corpus luteum consists of the remnants after ovulation. It also produces progesterone, estrogens, relaxin, and inhibin.
It eventually deteriorates into the fibrous scar tissue known as the corpus albicans.
A loosely defined border separates the ovarian cortex from the ovarian medulla. It contains blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerves.
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