Both ovaries have eggs, but they typically release eggs on alternating months.
Ovarian Function and Egg Release
The human female reproductive system includes two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus. Each ovary contains thousands of immature eggs (ova). These eggs develop and mature within the ovaries.
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Alternating Release: Usually, only one ovary releases a mature egg during each menstrual cycle. The ovaries take turns; one month the left ovary might release an egg, the next month the right ovary will. This alternating pattern is common, but not absolute; occasionally, one ovary might release an egg in consecutive cycles.
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Egg Maturation: Only one egg typically matures and is released during a given menstrual cycle. This process is called ovulation. The released egg then travels through the fallopian tube, where it may be fertilized by sperm.
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Unfertilized Egg: If fertilization doesn't occur, the unfertilized egg and the uterine lining are shed during menstruation, approximately two weeks after ovulation.
This alternating release pattern ensures that both ovaries contribute to reproduction throughout a woman's fertile years. Therefore, the answer to "Which ovary has eggs?" is both.
