how big are ovaries

2 hours ago 5
Nature

Ovaries are typically oval-shaped reproductive organs with sizes that vary depending on age and physiological factors.

  • In adulthood, the average ovary measures about 3.5 to 4 cm in length, 2 to 3 cm in width, and 1 to 2 cm in thickness, roughly the size of a kiwi or almond
  • This corresponds to a volume of approximately 3 to 6 milliliters
  • Before menopause, ovaries can be as large as around 6 cm, but they tend to shrink with age, becoming as small as 2 cm after menopause
  • At birth, ovaries are much smaller, about 1 cm in diameter, and grow progressively through childhood and puberty
  • The size can also fluctuate during the menstrual cycle due to follicle growth, with dominant follicles reaching up to 22-24 mm mid-cycle
  • Both ovaries are usually similar in size, typically ranging between 2 to 5 cm in length, 1 to 2 cm in width, and 0.5 to 1.5 cm in thickness

In summary, a normal adult ovary is about 3.5 to 4 cm long, 2 to 3 cm wide, and 1 to 2 cm thick, with size decreasing after menopause and varying slightly with the menstrual cycle