Final answer:
Ovaries are generally kept during hysterectomies to maintain hormone production of estrogen and progesterone, which are important for health and prevent immediate menopause.
Step-by-step explanation:
During hysterectomies, which are procedures to remove the uterus, the ovaries are often left intact due to their crucial role in a woman's hormonal balance and general health. The ovaries produce essential hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen is responsible for sexual maturity and regulating the menstrual cycle, while progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy and helps maintain it if fertilization occurs. Additionally, preserving the ovaries can help prevent the immediate onset of menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, which can occur if the ovaries are removed. Unless there is a medical indication to remove the ovaries, such as ovarian cancer or a significant risk of such, conserving them is beneficial for the ongoing hormonal function and bone health of the patient.