Final answer:
The ovaries produce estrogens and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and ovulation, prepare the uterus for pregnancy, and contribute to the development of secondary sexual characteristics. During pregnancy, the placenta takes over hormone production to maintain the pregnancy and support fetal development. The pituitary gland's hormones, FSH and LH, also play roles in regulating female reproductive processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ovaries are essential reproductive organs that produce female sex hormones such as estrogens and progesterone. Estrogens, including estradiol, estriol, and estrone, serve multiple functions including the development of the ovarian reproductive system, regulation of the menstrual cycle, and aiding in the development of secondary sex characteristics like breast tissue growth and increased adipose tissue. Progesterone supports the menstrual cycle's regulation and is crucial for preparing the uterus for a possible pregnancy and its maintenance once pregnancy occurs.
Additionally, during pregnancy, the placenta forms in the uterus and produces hormones like human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which furthers progesterone synthesis and prepares the breasts for lactation through human placental lactogen (hPL). The regulation of the female reproductive system involves hormones from the anterior pituitary gland such as FSH and LH, which in turn stimulate the production of estrogens and progesterone from the ovarian follicles. These hormones collectively guide the reproductive processes, including endometrial regrowth, ovulation, calcium absorption, and inhibition of FSH and LH through negative feedback.