Female Reproductive System

Study Notes

Functions of the Vagina

The vagina has three main functions: sexual intercourse, childbirth, and menstruation

Uterus

The uterus is a hollow muscular organ responsible for the development of the embryo and fetus during pregnancy
It is divided into three parts: Fundus, Body, and Cervix
The Cervix plays a vital role in controlling movement into and out of the uterus, protecting the fetus during pregnancy, and delivering the fetus during childbirth
The uterus is composed of three distinct layers: Endometrium, Myometrium, and Perimetrium

Fallopian Tubes

The Fallopian tubes are two long, fine tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus
The tubes are composed of the Fimbriae, Infundibulum, Ampulla, and Isthmus
Fertilization usually takes place in the Fallopian tubes

Oogenesis

Oogenesis is the process of producing female gametes in the ovaries
Unlike males, females produce all oocytes during fetal development
During fetal development, oogonium differentiate into primary oocytes, which remain in prophase I of mitosis

Follicle Development

Primary follicles are produced during fetal development
At puberty, secondary follicles develop, which eventually become Graafian follicles
The Graafian follicle releases the secondary oocyte during ovulation, and the remaining follicle becomes the Corpus Luteum

The Journey of the Egg

Ovulation occurs under the influence of FSH and LH, releasing a mature ovum
The mature ovum is caught by the Fimbriae and directed down the Fallopian tube
If sperm penetrate the ovum, it becomes a fertilized zygote
After a two-week period of rapid cell division, the zygote forms a solid cluster of cells, which eventually turn into a hollow Blastocyst

Implantation

Implantation occurs when the Blastocyst exchanges hormones with the endometrium and adheres to the wall

External Genitalia

The external female genitalia (vulva) include the Mons pubis, Labia majora, Labia minora, Clitoris, Opening of the urethra, and Perineum
The Mons pubis is a rounded, hair-covered area containing sebaceous glands involved in sexual attraction
The Labia majora are large, fleshy folds of tissue that enclose and protect the other external genital organs
The Labia minora are small folds of tissue that surround the openings to the vagina and urethra
The Clitoris is a small, sensitive protrusion that can become erect and stimulate orgasm
The Perineum is the area between the opening of the vagina and the anus, below the Labia majora

Description

Learn about the functions of the vagina and uterus, including sexual intercourse, childbirth, and menstruation. Explore the anatomy of the female reproductive system, including the structure and parts of the uterus.