ovarian
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /əʊvˈeəriən/
US
- /oʊˈvɛˌriən/
Description
- relating to the ovaries
- female reproductive system
- women's health
The word "ovarian" refers to anything connected with the ovaries, the organs in the female reproductive system that produce eggs and hormones. You might hear it when people talk about ovarian cancer, ovarian cysts, or ovarian function. It is mostly used in medical and health contexts. A doctor might discuss ovarian pain, ovarian reserve, or the ovarian cycle.
The word "ovarian" is an adjective that relates to the ovaries, two organs in the female reproductive system that produce eggs and hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. It is mainly used in biology and medicine and is not common in casual conversation.
You will most commonly see "ovarian" in discussions about health. For example, ovarian cancer is a serious disease that affects the ovaries, while an ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can develop on or in an ovary. Doctors may also assess ovarian reserve, which refers to the number and quality of eggs remaining in the ovaries.
The term also appears when discussing the menstrual cycle, especially the ovarian cycle, in which hormones change as the body prepares for ovulation. You may also read about ovarian stimulation during fertility treatment or about the effect of genetics on ovarian function. In most cases, the word points clearly to female anatomy and reproductive health.
So, if you hear the word "ovarian," the discussion is usually about the ovaries, reproductive health, or a medical condition connected to them.
Examples
- 1
Medical test
The doctor ordered an ultrasound to check for an ovarian cyst.
- 2
Cancer treatment
Her mother was treated for ovarian cancer.
- 3
Treatment follow-up
After chemotherapy, her doctors monitored her ovarian function.
- 4
Fertility assessment
The blood test gave the clinic a rough idea of her ovarian reserve.
Domain
ovarian reserve
the number and quality of eggs someone may still have
- 5
Fertility treatment
Some fertility treatments involve ovarian stimulation before egg collection.
Domain
ovarian stimulation
using medicine to make the ovaries produce eggs
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- ovarianadjective