N83: Noninflammatory disorders of ovary, fallopian tube and broad ligament

N83.4: Prolapse and hernia of ovary and fallopian tube

The ovaries are part of the female genitals. There are two ovaries, one on each side. The ovaries sit low down in the abdomen. Egg cells mature in the ovaries. The egg cells can later develop into a child. The ovaries also produce various messenger substances. The two fallopian tubes go to the right and left of the ovaries towards the womb. They are like tubes and they transport the egg cells from the ovaries to the uterus.

The ovaries and fallopian tubes are held in place by ligaments and connective tissue. If the connective tissue loses some of its firmness, the ovaries and fallopian tubes can become displaced. They can, for example, protrude through the groin. The groin is located between the abdomen and thighs. The protrusion is particularly visible when pressure in the abdomen is high. That may occur for instance during coughing or squeezing. Pressure in the abdomen also increases with heavy lifting.

If the ovaries or fallopian tubes become displaced, this may cause abdominal pain, for example. If the ovaries or fallopian tubes are trapped, the tissue can be severely damaged.