Female Reproductive System: Ovaries & Fallopian Tubes

• The female reproductive system is responsible for producing oocytes, supporting pregnancy, and facilitating childbirth.
• Key structures include the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, vagina, and external genitalia (vulva).
• These structures perform functions essential for reproduction, hormone production, and sexual function.

Ovaries

• The ovaries are the primary female reproductive organs, responsible for oogenesis and hormone production.
• Oogenesis is the process of producing mature oocytes (eggs).
• Follicles within the ovaries support oocyte development
• At ovulation, a mature oocyte is released from the ovary.
• The ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and support pregnancy.
• Estrogen is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics.
• Progesterone prepares the uterine lining for implantation.

Fallopian Tubes (Oviducts)

• The fallopian tubes transport oocytes from the ovaries to the uterus.
• Fimbriae are finger-like projections that capture the oocyte after ovulation.
• Fertilization typically occurs within the fallopian tubes.
• Cilia and peristaltic contractions help move the oocyte towards the uterus.

Uterus

• The uterus is a muscular organ that supports the implantation and development of a fertilized egg.
• The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus that thickens and sheds during the menstrual cycle.
• The myometrium is the muscular outer layer of the uterus responsible for contractions during labor.
• The uterus provides a nourishing environment for the developing fetus during pregnancy.

Cervix

• The cervix is the lower, narrow part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
• It produces mucus that changes in consistency during the menstrual cycle, facilitating or hindering sperm entry.
• During childbirth, the cervix dilates to allow the passage of the fetus.

Vagina

• The vagina is a muscular canal that extends from the cervix to the outside of the body.
• It serves as the receptacle for sperm during sexual intercourse.
• It provides a route for menstrual flow to leave the body.
• It is the birth canal through which the baby passes during delivery.

External Genitalia (Vulva)

• The vulva includes the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vestibular glands.
• The labia majora are outer folds of skin that protect the other external genitalia.
• The labia minora are inner folds of skin that surround the clitoris and vaginal opening.
• The clitoris is a highly sensitive erectile organ involved in sexual arousal.
• The vestibular glands secrete mucus to lubricate the vaginal opening during sexual activity.

Menstrual Cycle

• The menstrual cycle is a recurring series of changes in the female reproductive system, typically lasting about 28 days.
• The cycle involves the coordinated activity of hormones from the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries.
• The cycle is divided into the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase.
• During the follicular phase, follicles in the ovary mature, and the endometrium thickens.
• Ovulation involves the release of an oocyte from the ovary.
• During the luteal phase, the corpus luteum forms and secretes progesterone to maintain the endometrium.
• If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, hormone levels decline, and menstruation occurs.
• Menstruation is the shedding of the endometrium, resulting in vaginal bleeding.

Fertilization and Pregnancy

• Fertilization is the fusion of a sperm and an oocyte, typically occurring in the fallopian tube.
• The fertilized egg (zygote) travels to the uterus and implants in the endometrium.
• Pregnancy is the period during which a developing fetus grows within the uterus.
• The placenta develops to provide nutrients and oxygen to the fetus and remove waste products.
• Hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), estrogen, and progesterone maintain the pregnancy.

Childbirth (Parturition)

• Childbirth involves a series of events that expel the fetus and placenta from the uterus.
• Labor is divided into three stages: dilation, expulsion, and placental.
• During the dilation stage, uterine contractions cause the cervix to dilate.
• During the expulsion stage, the baby is delivered through the vagina.
• During the placental stage, the placenta is expelled from the uterus.

Overview of the female reproductive system, focusing on the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Ovaries produce oocytes and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Fallopian tubes transport oocytes to the uterus.