Female Reproductive System and Menstrual Cycle

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary trigger for the shedding of the endometrium during the menstrual cycle?

Drop in progesterone levels (correct)

Maturation of ovarian follicles

Increase in estrogen levels

Sustained high levels of LH

Which phase of the menstrual cycle occurs after ovulation and is characterized by high levels of progesterone?

Ovulatory phase

Proliferative phase

Secretory phase (correct)

Menstrual phase

What is amenorrhea?

Excessive menstrual bleeding

Painful menstruation

Irregular menstrual cycles

Absence of menstruation (correct)

Which of the following is a common infectious disorder of the female reproductive system?

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle?

Maturation of follicles and rebuilding of the endometrium Signup and view all the answers

Which disorder is characterized by the presence of benign breast masses?

Mastitis Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of endometrial disorders?

They can lead to abnormal uterine bleeding Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical duration of the menstrual cycle?

28 days Signup and view all the answers

What is a common manifestation of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB)?

Increased daily or monthly volume Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is characterized by bleeding between regular menstrual cycles?

Intermenstrual bleeding (IMB) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause suspected in premenstrual dysphoric syndrome (PMD)?

Hormonal fluctuations Signup and view all the answers

What is the first degree of uterine prolapse classified as?

Cervix has dropped into the vagina Signup and view all the answers

What are leiomyomas more commonly known as?

Fibroids Signup and view all the answers

What is a prominent risk factor for developing breast cancer?

Early onset of menstruation Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential complication of ovarian cysts?

Hemorrhaging Signup and view all the answers

What type of infection is pelvic inflammatory disease generally associated with?

Bacterial Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)?

Ovarian pain Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical manifestation of candidiasis in the reproductive system?

Thick, white vaginal discharge Signup and view all the answers

Which breast condition is characterized by inflammation associated with infection?

Mastitis Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a typical manifestation of endometriosis?

Weight loss Signup and view all the answers

What is the main cause of cervical cancer?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Female Reproductive System - Anatomy

The female reproductive system includes the ovaries, uterus (including the uterine tube, body, cervix and endometrium/myometrium), vagina, labia, clitoris and mammary glands.

Menstrual Cycle

Primarily controlled by pituitary hormones, the menstrual cycle lasts roughly 28 days.
Consists of three phases: menstrual, proliferative, and secretory.
Each phase is marked by changes in hormone levels.
The cycle repeats until pregnancy or menopause occurs.

Menstrual Disorders

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is common at menarche and perimenopause.
Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is an increased daily/monthly volume.
Intermenstrual bleeding (IMB) is bleeding between regular menses.
Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation.
Dysmenorrhea is painful menstruation.

Premenstrual Syndromes

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) includes physical and emotional symptoms that occur around menstruation.
Premenstrual dysphoric syndrome (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS.
Relief can be found through hormone therapy, antidepressants, analgesics, comfort measures, and dietary changes.

Pelvic Organ Prolapses

Muscles, ligaments, and fascia support the bladder, uterus, and rectum in the female pelvis.
These can weaken, leading to prolapses.
Common types include:
- Cystocele (urethrocele): bladder protrudes into anterior wall of the vagina.
- Rectocele: rectum protrudes through the posterior wall of the vagina.
- Uterine Prolapse: descent of the uterus or cervix into the vagina.

Disorders of the Uterus

Endometriosis: endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus.
- This can lead to pain, cysts, scarring, adhesions, and infertility.
Leiomyomas (Fibroids): benign growths of the uterine muscle.
- These are often asymptomatic but can cause irregular bleeding and pain.

Disorders of the Ovaries

Ovarian cysts: benign fluid-filled sacs on the ovary.
- These can rupture, causing pain.
- Associated with complications, including hemorrhaging, peritonitis, infertility and amenorrhea.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): affects hormone and endocrine systems.
- Can lead to infertility, amenorrhea, hirsutism, acne, and male-pattern baldness.

Disorders of the Breasts

Fibrocystic breast changes/masses: benign nodules in the breast.
- Often present during childbearing years.
Mastitis: breast tissue inflammation associated with infection.
- Typically occurs during lactation.

Infectious Diseases

Candidiasis: a common yeast infection caused by Candida albicans.
- Often occurs in the vagina and can be treated with antifungal agents.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): infection of the female reproductive system.
- Can lead to reproductive structure obstructions, peritonitis, abscesses, and infertility.

Breast Cancer

Most common malignancy in women, second leading cause of cancer death in women.
Contributing factors include: age, early onset of menstruation, family history, genetic predisposition, obesity, and exposure to estrogen.
Metastasis can occur to lymph nodes, lungs, brain, bone, and liver.

Cervical Cancer

Rates have declined due to screening advancements and HPV vaccinations.
Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV.
HPV can also be transmitted to oral/head and neck region.

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Description

Explore the complexities of the female reproductive system, including its anatomy and functions. Understand the phases of the menstrual cycle, various menstrual disorders, and symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome. This quiz provides insights into women's health and reproductive anatomy.