Ovarian Disorders main
The ovaries are a pair of female reproductive glands that make eggs and female hormones. Women have one ovary on each side of the uterus (where a fetus grows during pregnancy). Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond.
Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the body grow out of control and form a tumor. Ovarian cancer is a cancerous tumor that forms in the tissues of an ovary.
The ovaries are part of the female reproductive system. They produce a woman’s eggs and make female hormones.
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as premature ovarian failure, happens when a woman’s ovaries stop working normally before she is 40.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the name for set of symptoms that are related to an imbalance of hormones. PCOS affects the ovaries, as well as many other parts of the body.
Fertility problems related to PCOS often are linked to the absence of ovulation (called anovulation), a key feature of PCOS. However, anovulation may not be the only factor in these problems. Before beginning treatment for infertility possibly related to PCOS, work with your health care provider to rule out other causes.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the uterus, ovaries, and other female reproductive organs. PID causes scarring in these organs. This can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy, pelvic pain, abscesses (a collection of pus), and other serious problems. PID is the most common preventable cause of infertility in the United States.