US Medical Term · anatomy
Ovary
Ovario
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Ovary |
| Spanish (Español) | Ovario |
| Chinese (中文) | 卵巢 |
| Korean (한국어) | 난소 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Buồng trứng |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Obaryo |
| Portuguese (Português) | Ovário |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | รังไข่ |
| Japanese (日本語) | 卵巣 |
What it means
The ovaries are two small, almond-sized organs in a woman's pelvis, one on each side of the uterus. They have two main functions: producing eggs (ova) that can be fertilized and potentially lead to pregnancy, and producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and support pregnancy. Each month, usually one egg matures and is released during ovulation. Common ovarian problems include cysts (fluid-filled sacs), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), ovarian torsion (twisting), and ovarian cancer. Symptoms like pelvic pain, bloating, or irregular periods should be reported to your doctor. Ultrasound is commonly used to view the ovaries.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
The ultrasound found a cyst on my right ovary.
El ultrasonido encontró un quiste en el ovario derecho.
I have pain in the area of my ovary that started suddenly.
Tengo dolor en el área del ovario que comenzó de repente.
My doctor said my ovaries are not producing enough hormones.
El médico dijo que los ovarios no están produciendo suficientes hormonas.
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026