21.2

The Female Reproductive System

• The female reproductive system produces female sex cells, called eggs or ova, and houses and nurtures a developing baby.
• The organs of the female reproductive system also help care for a baby after birth.

Organs of the Female Reproductive System

• Vagina: a tube-like structure that connects the uterus to the outside, lined with mucus and is the passage for childbirth.
• Cervix: the opening to the uterus, protected by the internal opening, located between the legs.
• Uterus: a muscular organ located in the pelvic cavity, where a fertilized egg implants and develops.
• Fallopian Tubes: two tubes attached to the uterus, where fertilization typically occurs.
• Ovaries: two almond-shaped organs where eggs are produced, containing thousands of immature eggs called follicles.
• Labia: folds of skin that protect the vagina, consisting of Labia Majora and Labia Minora.
• Clitoris: a small, erectile organ located above the vaginal opening, involved in sexual stimulation.

Ovaries and Ovulation

• Each ovary contains thousands of immature eggs called follicles.
• One mature egg is released from an ovary every month in a process called ovulation.
• Ovaries also produce hormones, including estrogen and progesterone, that control the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and other characteristics.

Menstrual Cycle

• The menstrual cycle is controlled by hormones produced by the ovaries.
• The inner lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, prepares for a fertilized egg to implant.
• If the egg is not fertilized, the endometrium is shed, resulting in menstruation.

Breasts and Breast Cancer

• Breasts contain mammary glands, which produce milk after childbirth.
• The introduction of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is expected to reduce the number of cervical cancer deaths.
• Cervical cancer screening is important, especially in low-income countries where access to vaccines and testing is limited.

Caring for the Female Reproductive System

• Practices good hygiene, such as showering or bathing regularly, wearing cotton or breathable underwear, and changing underwear daily.
• Wipe the urethral and vaginal area gently from front to back after urinating to prevent UTIs.
• Avoid using douches or deodorant sprays to clean the vagina, as they can irritate the vagina or cause allergic reactions.

Menstrual Hygiene Products

• Pads: absorbent material that soaks up blood, placed in the underwear, and come in different sizes, thicknesses, and absorbencies.
• Tampons: cylinders of absorbent material that soak up blood inside the vagina, inserted into the vagina, and come in different sizes and absorbencies.
• Menstrual cup: a flexible, thin cup inserted into the vagina, collects blood before it leaves the vagina, and can be washed and reused.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

• A rare condition caused by bacteria in the vagina releasing toxins that enter the blood.
• Symptoms include high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, weakness, dizziness, and a red rash.
• Requires emergency attention.

Breast Awareness

• Females should begin receiving yearly mammograms (breast X-rays) around the age of 45.
• Breast cancer is extremely rare in teens, but it's important to become familiar with the structure, look, and feel of their breasts to recognize changes.