What role do the ovaries play in the female reproductive system?

The ovaries are essential organs in the female reproductive system primarily responsible for producing eggs and hormones. Each month during the menstrual cycle, the ovaries release an egg in a process called ovulation. This egg can be fertilized by sperm, leading to potential pregnancy. Additionally, the ovaries produce crucial hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. These hormones regulate various reproductive processes, including the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and secondary sexual characteristics. This dual functionality of producing both eggs and hormones underscores the ovaries' vital role in female reproduction.