21 Ovaries and Testes

Imagine you’re studying for a big exam, and you know you need to focus. Your body knows exactly what to do to help you stay sharp—hormones are released to keep you alert and energized. Now, consider how your body prepares for the creation of new life, not just through the process of reproduction, but through the hormones that regulate essential functions. The ovaries and testes, often thought of simply as the organs responsible for gametes in reproduction, actually have a much larger role in maintaining your body’s balance. These gonads produce not only eggs and sperm, but also a variety of hormones that keep everything from growth to metabolism in check. Below, you’ll find an image that helps differentiate between the male and female endocrine glands and their vital hormonal functions. 

figure 44 Anterior View; Ovaries(left) Testes (right)

Ovaries:

The ovaries, paired oval structures produce estrogens and progesterone. These hormones, along with follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone from the anterior pituitary regulate the menstrual cycle. These hormones also facilitate enlargement of breasts, widening of hips and other secondary sex characteristics for women during puberty.

figure 45 Anterior View; Ovaries and hormones

Testes:

The testes, oval glands which lie in the scrotum produce testosterone, an androgen or male sex hormone (a cholesterol based lipid hormone). Testosterone regulates sperm production, and similarly facilitates development of secondary sex characteristics during puberty.

figure 46 Anterior View; Testes and hormones

Review the responsibilities of the ovaries!

Hint: This meme is referring to the fact that the ovaries are responsible for both egg production and hormone regulation. By knowing these functions, you won’t underestimate their importance in the future! To review the ovaries in more depth visit Chapter 3 by clicking here: