Anatomy of the External Genitalia

External Genitalia (Vulva)

• The vulva encompasses the external female genitalia, including the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal opening (vestibule).
• The mons pubis is a fatty pad overlying the pubic symphysis, covered in pubic hair in most cases.
• The labia majora are homologous to the scrotum in males, consisting of folds of skin and adipose tissue that protect the inner structures and provide some mechanical protection.
• The labia minora are thinner, smooth folds of skin located medial to the labia majora, which form a vestibule surrounding the openings of the vagina and urethra.
• The clitoris is composed of erectile tissue, highly sensitive to stimulation, and plays a central role in sexual sensation. It has a glans and shaft and is homologous to the penis in males.
• The vaginal opening (vestibule) is the space between the labia minora, containing the opening of the urethra and vagina.
• Structures like the Bartholin’s glands are located within the vestibule and secrete mucus.

Internal Genitalia

• The internal female genitalia include the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
• The vagina is a muscular, elastic tube that extends from the external opening to the cervix. It acts as a passageway for childbirth, menstrual flow, and sexual intercourse.
• The cervix is the lower portion of the uterus, connecting it to the vagina. Its opening (os) regulates the flow of sperm and menstrual blood.
• The uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped muscular organ where a fertilized ovum implants and develops. It has three layers: perimetrium, myometrium, and endometrium.
• The fallopian tubes (oviducts) are tubes extending from the uterus to the ovaries. Fertilization usually occurs within the fallopian tubes.
• The ovaries are paired organs that produce ova (eggs) and the hormones estrogen and progesterone. They also undergo cyclical development of follicles.

Hormonal Regulation

• The reproductive cycle is primarily regulated by the interaction of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries.
• Hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, and progesterone play crucial roles in ovulation, menstruation, and pregnancy.
• Estrogen is primarily responsible for the development and maintenance of female secondary sexual characteristics.
• Progesterone plays a key role in preparing and maintaining the uterine lining for potential implantation.

Menstrual Cycle

• The menstrual cycle is a monthly series of changes in the female reproductive system that prepares the body for pregnancy.
• The cycle is typically about 28 days long, although variations are common.
• The cycle involves phases of follicular development, ovulation, luteal phase, and menstruation.

Pregnancy

• Pregnancy involves the fertilization of an ovum by sperm and its subsequent implantation and development within the uterine wall.
• During pregnancy, the hormonal environment shifts dramatically, with increasing levels of progesterone and estrogen maintaining the pregnancy.
• Physiological adaptations to pregnancy, as well as conditions such as gestational diabetes, are essential to note.

Oogenesis and Ovarian Cycle

• Oogenesis is the process of egg (ovum) development in the ovaries.
• Multiple ovarian follicles develop during the follicular phase, with only one typically reaching full maturity and releasing an ovum.
• This process is linked to the menstrual cycle and regulated by fluctuating hormone levels.

Breast Anatomy

• The breasts are composed of mammary glands, numerous alveoli where milk is produced, along with fibrous tissue, and adipose tissue.
• Ductal systems carry milk produced by the alveoli to the nipple.
• The nipple and areola are vital for breastfeeding, providing a means for milk ejection.