Female Reproductive System Overview

The process of egg cell production in the ovaries.

Structures in the ovaries that produce estrogen.

Structure that forms from a ruptured follicle and secretes progesterone.

Transport eggs or zygotes to the uterus.

The inner lining of the uterus; shed during menstruation.

Supports pregnancy and mammary gland growth; inhibits uterine contractions.

Stimulates follicle development, and estrogen production

Causes ovulation and converts follicle to corpus luteum.

Inhibin decreases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion, particularly near the end of the menstrual cycle.

Prolactin promotes milk production after childbirth.

Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions during labor and milk release.

The average menstrual cycle lasts approximately 28 days.

Spermatogenesis, the process of sperm production, occurs in the seminiferous tubules of the testes.

FSH initiates the process of sperm production (spermatogenesis).

Testosterone promotes the maturation of sperm.

Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation for 12 consecutive months.

A natural process in women usually occurring between ages 45-55, marked by a decline in estrogen production, leading to cessation of ovulation and menstruation.

Menopause brings about various physical changes like vaginal atrophy, increased cholesterol, bone loss, and urinary incontinence.

A common condition in older men characterized by enlargement of the prostate gland, causing urinary retention.

As men age, testosterone production decreases, leading to decreased muscle mass, bone loss, and sperm production. However, sperm production continues throughout life.

A healthy menstrual cycle involves regular, painless shedding of the uterine lining (menstruation), free from infection, and a high chance of successful pregnancy.

Many female reproductive system disorders are internal, often with few external signs. Observing pain (WHATS UP? format) is key for early detection.

Collects information about personal, menstrual, obstetrical, gynecological, sexual, and family histories to effectively address reproductive health.

A mnemonic tool used to help understand and document pain, including location, onset, character, severity, duration, pattern, and associated symptoms.

A procedure using a binocular microscope and an endoscope to closely examine the cervix for lesions.

A procedure using an endoscope to visualize the inside of the uterus.

A procedure using an endoscope to examine the abdominal cavity, often used to identify endometriosis.

A procedure using an endoscope to examine the inside of the fallopian tubes.

A procedure using an endoscope introduced into the vagina and through a small incision to observe the cul-de-sac of Douglas.

The process of pumping CO2 into the body compartment being examined during an endoscopic procedure, increasing the distance between structures for visualization.

Excess breast tissue in males, often caused by an imbalance of female hormones.

An abnormally small penis.

A system used to describe a woman's obstetrical history, summarizing the number of terms, pregnancies, live births, abortions, and living children.

A physical examination of the breasts, including visual observation and palpation, to detect any abnormalities.

A visual inspection of the vulva, including the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening, to assess color, symmetry, hair distribution, lesions, swelling, and discharge.

A visual examination of the vagina to assess for shape, bulges, color changes, lesions, and discharge.

A physical examination of the internal reproductive organs, including the cervix, uterus, and ovaries, by palpation or visualization.

A routine practice where a woman checks her own breasts for any lumps, changes in size or shape, or skin abnormalities.

A medical imaging technique using sound waves to assess the density and structure of breast tissue.

A specialized X-ray imaging technique used to detect breast abnormalities.

A condition where the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis shaft.

A condition where the urethral opening is located on the top (dorsum) of the penis shaft.

A noninvasive test to determine if a scrotal mass is fluid-filled or solid. A light is shone through the scrotum; fluid glows red, solids appear opaque.

Swelling of the veins in the spermatic cord, often feeling like a 'bag of worms'.

Examination of the prostate by inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum.

Men aged 50 and older should be reminded about prostate cancer screening.

A monthly self-check to detect tumors or changes in the scrotum.

Men should also be familiar with their breasts and report any changes, as breast cancer is possible in men.