Which of the following statements is true about the ovaries?

• A. The ovaries produce sperm
• B. The ovaries produce ova and secrete estrogen and progesterone
• C. The ovaries filter blood and regulate immune responses
• D. The ovaries produce digestive enzymes

Answer: (B)

Ovaries perform two main roles: they produce ova and secrete female sex hormones. The eggs develop in ovarian follicles, and during each cycle one follicle releases an ovum (ovulation). The hormones they release, mainly estrogen and progesterone, regulate the menstrual cycle and drive secondary sexual characteristics, with progesterone also preparing and maintaining the uterine lining for potential pregnancy.

This is why the statement about producing ova and secreting estrogen and progesterone is correct. Producing sperm is the responsibility of the testes, not the ovaries. Filtering blood or regulating immune responses are functions of organs like the kidneys and immune tissues, not the ovaries. Digestive enzymes are produced by the pancreas and other parts of the digestive system, not the ovaries.