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.

Explore the anatomy of the female external genitalia in this quiz, focusing on the vulva, including the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal opening. Understand the structure and function of each part and their significance in female anatomy.