The coordinated functions of the ovary and reproductive tract are critical to mammalian fertility. Receptors for ovarian steroids within the uterus and ovary are central mediators of ovulation, implantation, and gestation, thus understanding of cellular localization and mechanisms involved in their functions in these tissues is essential knowledge to appreciate and further study pregnancy. Here, we have reviewed details regarding the basic structures and mechanisms of the steroid receptors. We have described steroid receptors found within the ovary and uterus, and summarized numerous studies utilizing both natural and elegantly engineered genetic models and steroid ligands that reveal much regarding the mechanisms and roles of estrogen, progesterone, androgen, and glucocorticoid receptors in these tissues.