Female Reproductive System
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of the female reproductive system?

  • Transport of sperm and ovum to a common site for union
  • Maintenance of the developing fetus until it can survive in the outside world
  • Reception of sperm
  • Production of sperm (correct)
  • The product of fertilization is known as an:

  • Zygote
  • Oocyte
  • Embryo (correct)
  • Fetus
  • What is the name of the exchange organ between the mother and fetus?

  • Uterus
  • Amnion
  • Placenta (correct)
  • Yolk Sac
  • Which of the following is NOT a part of the upper genital tract?

    <p>Vagina (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term used for the external genitals of a female?

    <p>Vulva (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a function of the ovaries?

    <p>Production of ova (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following terms refers to the process of giving birth?

    <p>Parturition (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The female reproductive system is designed to enable:

    <p>The formation of a new individual (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to the levels of both LH and FSH when estrogen levels rise above a certain level?

    <p>They are stimulated. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the corpus luteum?

    <p>Secretion of progesterone and estrogen. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary trigger for ovulation?

    <p>A peak in LH levels. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to the endometrium during the menstrual phase?

    <p>It is shed along with blood. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary effect of increased progesterone levels on FSH and LH secretion?

    <p>Inhibition of both. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does estrogen play in the early follicular phase?

    <p>It stimulates follicle growth. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following correctly describes the relationship between the ovarian cycle and the uterine cycle?

    <p>The ovarian cycle influences the uterine cycle. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary mechanism by which the ovarian cycle is initiated after the corpus luteum degenerates?

    <p>Increased levels of FSH. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the hymen in the female anatomy?

    <p>To partially cover the vaginal opening (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which structures are included in the definition of the vulva?

    <p>Labia majora and labia minora (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where is the clitoris located in relation to the labia minora?

    <p>At the anterior end (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is true regarding the vaginal opening?

    <p>It lies between the urethral and anal openings (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the labia majora and labia minora primarily composed of?

    <p>Skin folds (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long does oogenesis typically take to complete?

    <p>12 to 50 years (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the result of one primary oocyte undergoing meiosis?

    <p>One mature ovum and three polar bodies (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At what stage do primary oocytes remain until prepared for ovulation?

    <p>Meiotic arrest (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When do germ cells called oogonia undergo mitosis?

    <p>Only during the prenatal period (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference between spermatogenesis and oogenesis in terms of the final gamete produced?

    <p>Oogenesis produces one viable ovum, while spermatogenesis produces four viable sperm. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When do females typically reach their menopause, marking the end of oogenesis?

    <p>Around age 50 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What initiates the oogenesis process during fetal development?

    <p>Germ cells developing in the embryonic yolk sac (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many primary oocytes are typically present in a normal ovary at birth?

    <p>About 1–2 million (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which phase of the ovarian cycle does the corpus luteum develop?

    <p>Luteal phase (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is primarily responsible for endometrial growth during the proliferative phase?

    <p>Estrogen (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of menopause?

    <p>Increased estrogen production (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary factor thought to trigger the onset of menopause?

    <p>Changes in hypothalamic sensitivity to estrogen (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of GnRH in the female reproductive system?

    <p>Stimulates the release of FSH and LH from the pituitary (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a secondary sexual characteristic in females?

    <p>Fat deposition in the buttocks and thighs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the duration of the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle?

    <p>7-14 days (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the period of perimenopause leading to menopause?

    <p>Irregular cycles and declining hormone levels (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary consequence of estrogen loss during menopause?

    <p>Negative effects on the skeletal and cardiovascular systems (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How much estrogen is produced daily by adipose tissue, adrenal cortex, and liver during menopause?

    <p>20 mg (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hormone surge triggers ovulation in the menstrual cycle?

    <p>FSH and LH (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What process is primarily responsible for the end of menstrual cycles during menopause?

    <p>Failure of the ovaries to respond to gonadotropic hormones (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What reproductive change occurs predominantly due to the reduction in follicles available for hormone stimulation?

    <p>Menopausal symptoms (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What initiates the first meiotic division of the primary oocyte?

    <p>Increase of both FSH and LH (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which meiotic stage does the oocyte remain arrested until fertilization?

    <p>Second meiotic division, metaphase (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the female reproductive system that distinguishes it from the male reproductive system?

    <p>Production of testosterone for secondary sex characteristics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key physiological difference between the embryo and a fetus?

    <p>The embryo primarily undergoes rapid cell division, while the fetus undergoes organ formation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes the relationship between the ovarian cycle and the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Both cycles are synchronized, with changes in the ovarian cycle directly influencing the menstrual cycle. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is the primary trigger for ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary?

    <p>A surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The formation of the placenta is a crucial event in pregnancy. Which of the following is the primary function of the placenta?

    <p>To act as a filter that removes waste products from the fetus and delivers nutrients from the mother. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary factor that triggers the completion of the first meiotic division in a primary oocyte?

    <p>The presence of a sperm cell in the fallopian tube. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which stage of oogenesis is most likely to occur during the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle?

    <p>The completion of meiosis I, resulting in a secondary oocyte. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The statement "No new oocytes or follicles appear after birth" implies that:

    <p>A woman is born with a finite number of oocytes, which are not replenished. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary distinction between the roles of LH and FSH in oogenesis during the menstrual cycle?

    <p>FSH stimulates the follicle’s growth and maturation, while LH induces ovulation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement correctly describes the polar body's role in oogenesis?

    <p>It is a small, non-functional cell that is essentially a byproduct of meiosis. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The statement "Secondary oocytes that are not fertilized never complete this final division" implies that:

    <p>The completion of meiosis II is dependent on fertilization. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following events directly precedes the formation of a corpus luteum?

    <p>The rupture of the mature follicle and release of the oocyte. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If a female undergoes a surgical procedure to remove her ovaries (oophorectomy), which of the following processes would be directly affected?

    <p>The development of the corpus luteum. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the early follicular phase, the dominant follicle grows rapidly and produces increasing amounts of estrogen. What is the primary consequence of this estrogen production on the other developing follicles?

    <p>The estrogen suppresses the growth of the other follicles, preventing them from maturing. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The rupture of the dominant follicle, releasing the secondary oocyte, marks the end of the follicular phase and the beginning of the luteal phase. What hormonal event primarily triggers this follicle rupture?

    <p>A surge in LH levels from the anterior pituitary is the primary trigger for rupture. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The menstrual cycle is a complex interplay of hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, FSH, and LH. Which hormone, during the luteal phase, is primarily responsible for maintaining a suitable environment for a potential pregnancy?

    <p>Progesterone, by thickening the endometrial lining and preparing the uterus for implantation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The ovarian cycle is characterized by alternating follicular and luteal phases, each with distinct hormonal profiles and physiological changes. What is the primary hormonal event that triggers the transition from the luteal phase to the next follicular phase?

    <p>A decrease in progesterone levels due to the degeneration of the corpus luteum. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The dominant follicle, during its maturation process, produces increasing amounts of estrogen. How does this rise in estrogen levels affect the secretion of FSH and LH from the anterior pituitary?

    <p>Estrogen inhibits the secretion of both FSH and LH. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The menstrual cycle is orchestrated by the complex interplay of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries. What is the primary role of GnRH in this cycle?

    <p>GnRH stimulates the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH, which in turn regulate ovarian function. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The menstrual cycle has distinct phases: follicular, ovulation, luteal, and menstruation. During which phase does the thickened endometrium shed, resulting in menstrual bleeding?

    <p>Menstrual phase (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The corpus luteum, formed after ovulation, plays a crucial role in the luteal phase. What is the primary function of the corpus luteum during this phase?

    <p>The corpus luteum primarily secretes progesterone, preparing the uterus for implantation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What directly causes the corpus luteum to regress into the corpus albicans after 10 days if the ovum is not fertilized?

    <p>The decline in estrogen levels, specifically estradiol, directly contributes to the degradation of the corpus luteum. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the corpus luteum in the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle?

    <p>To produce predominantly progesterone and lesser amounts of estrogen to prepare the uterus for implantation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hormonal change directly precedes ovulation and is essential for preparing the uterus for implantation?

    <p>The increase in estrogen levels during the follicular phase is crucial for endometrial growth and preparation for implantation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary difference between the follicular phase and the luteal phase in terms of hormonal secretion?

    <p>The follicular phase is characterized by high estrogen levels, while the luteal phase is marked by high progesterone levels. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes the process of ovulation?

    <p>The release of the ovum marks the transition from the follicular phase to the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    If the ovum is fertilized and successfully implants, what happens to the corpus luteum?

    <p>The corpus luteum will continue to produce progesterone until the placenta takes over hormone production. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of estradiol (estrogen) secretion in the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle?

    <p>To stimulate the growth and maturation of the follicle and thicken the uterine lining. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary consequence of the unfertilized ovum's failure to implant in the uterus?

    <p>The corpus luteum will degenerate, leading to the onset of menstruation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following accurately describes the hormonal changes that occur during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Progesterone levels increase significantly, while estrogen levels decrease. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reason why menopause occurs, based on recent evidence?

    <p>A midlife change in the sensitivity of the hypothalamus to estrogen feedback triggers the onset of menopause. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) in the female reproductive system?

    <p>GnRH stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to release FSH and LH, which in turn regulate ovarian function. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following scenarios would most likely lead to the interruption of the menstrual cycle and the onset of menopause?

    <p>A prolonged period of low estrogen levels and a decrease in the responsiveness of the hypothalamus to estrogen feedback. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most accurate description of the relationship between the proliferative phase of the uterine cycle and the ovarian follicular phase?

    <p>The proliferative phase and the ovarian follicular phase occur concurrently. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes the evolutionary purpose of menopause?

    <p>Menopause evolved as a mechanism to prevent pregnancy in older women when their ability to successfully rear children is likely reduced. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most likely consequence of a decrease in estrogen production during early menopause?

    <p>An increased risk of cardiovascular disease due to the reduction in estrogen's protective effects. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best explains the role of the corpus luteum in the menstrual cycle?

    <p>The corpus luteum secretes progesterone, which prepares the uterus for pregnancy in case of fertilization. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primarily declines as the ovaries undergo their progressive failure during perimenopause?

    <p>Estrogen and progesterone levels (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which physiological systems are primarily affected by the loss of estrogen during menopause?

    <p>Cardiovascular and skeletal systems (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following tissues continues to produce small amounts of estrogen after the ovaries cease production?

    <p>Adipose tissue (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which stage does the primary oocyte remain arrested until fertilization occurs?

    <p>Second meiotic division, metaphase (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What primary change in follicular response contributes to the onset of menopause?

    <p>Decreased responsiveness of the follicles to gonadotropic hormones (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hormone surge is responsible for the initiation of ovulation?

    <p>Luteinizing hormone (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is often attributed to the changes in the reproductive system during menopause?

    <p>Decreased number of responsive follicles (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where does the majority of estrogen production occur prior to the onset of menopause?

    <p>Ovaries (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Female Reproductive System Functions

    Includes ovum production, sperm reception, fertilization, fetus maintenance, birth, and lactation.

    Oogenesis

    The process of producing ova (egg cells) in females.

    Menstrual Cycle Hormonal Changes

    Hormones like estrogen and progesterone regulate the menstrual cycle.

    Upper Genital Tract

    Consists of ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and cervix in females.

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    Lower Genital Tract

    Includes the vagina and vulva, involved in sexual reproduction.

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    Gestation

    The period of development of the fetus in the womb.

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    Parturition

    The act of giving birth to a baby.

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    Menopause

    The time in a woman’s life when menstrual cycles cease.

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    Vaginal Opening

    The opening located between the urethral and anal openings, partially covered by the hymen.

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    Hymen

    A thin mucous membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening, often disrupted during first intercourse.

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    Vulva

    The collective term for female external genitalia, including labia majora, labia minora, and clitoris.

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    Labia Majora

    The larger outer folds of skin that surround the vaginal and urethral openings.

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    Clitoris

    A small erotic structure located at the anterior end of the labia minora.

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    Menopause phases

    Transition marked by progressive ovarian failure and irregular cycles.

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    Perimenopause

    Period of declining ovarian function leading up to menopause.

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    Estrogen source post-menopause

    After menopause, estrogen is produced in small amounts by adipose tissue, adrenal cortex, and liver.

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    Impact of estrogen loss

    Loss of estrogen mainly affects bones and the cardiovascular system.

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    Oocyte arrest stage

    Oocytes are arrested in the second meiotic division, specifically in metaphase until fertilization.

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    Estrogen source during mid-cycle

    Estrogen levels rise rapidly due to the corpus luteum after ovulation.

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    Cause of menopause

    Menopause is attributed to reduced numbers of follicles in the ovaries.

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    FSH and LH surge function

    FSH and LH surges trigger ovulation and resumption of meiosis in oocytes.

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    Proliferative Phase

    The phase when the endometrium repairs and grows under estrogen influence.

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    Secretory Phase

    The phase after ovulation where the endometrium prepares for a potential embryo under progesterone and estrogen.

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    Corpus Luteum

    A structure formed after ovulation that secretes progesterone and estrogen.

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    GnRH

    Gonadotropin-releasing hormone that stimulates the anterior pituitary to release hormones for reproduction.

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    Menstrual Cycle

    The monthly cycle of changes in the female reproductive system involving follicular and luteal phases.

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    Hypothalamic Change

    A suggested reason for menopause involving altered estrogen feedback sensitivity.

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    Secondary Sexual Characteristics

    Physical features like fat deposition that develop during puberty under estrogen’s influence.

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    Follicular Phase

    The phase where FSH stimulates the ovarian follicle to produce estrogen, inhibiting further FSH release.

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    Estrogen Surge

    A dramatic rise in estrogen near the end of the follicular phase that promotes LH and FSH release.

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    Ovulation

    The event triggered by a peak in LH, leading to the release of a mature egg from the ovary.

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    Luteal Phase

    The phase after ovulation where the corpus luteum produces progesterone and estrogen.

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    Progesterone Function

    Hormone secreted during the luteal phase that inhibits FSH and LH, maintaining uterine conditions.

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    Uterine Cycle Phases

    The uterine cycle involves three phases: menstrual, proliferative, and secretory.

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    Menstrual Phase

    The phase characterized by the discharge of blood and endometrial debris, marking the start of a new cycle.

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    Spermatogenesis

    The process of developing spermatozoa in the male.

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    Primary Oocyte

    An immature oocyte that is arrested in the first meiotic division.

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    Oogonia

    The germ cells that develop into primary oocytes through mitosis.

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    Meiotic Arrest

    The state where primary oocytes pause in development.

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    Polar Bodies

    Byproducts of oocyte division that disintegrate.

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    Female Germ Cells

    Cells that develop into oocytes, originating from the yolk sac.

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    Gametes

    Specialized haploid reproductive cells produced through meiosis.

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    Functions of Female Reproductive System

    Includes ovum production, sperm reception, fertilization, fetus maintenance, birth, and lactation.

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    Uterine Changes in Menstrual Cycle

    Involves thickening and shedding of the uterine lining in response to hormonal changes.

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    Hypothalamus Role

    Releases GnRH to stimulate the pituitary gland in the reproductive hormone cascade.

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    Role of Placenta

    An organ that facilitates nutrient and gas exchange between mother and fetus during pregnancy.

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    Oogenesis Process

    The process of developing oocytes from oogonia to mature eggs in females.

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    Gestation Period

    The time during which the embryo or fetus develops inside the womb.

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    Breastfeeding (Lactation)

    The production and secretion of milk from the mammary glands to nourish the infant.

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    Primary Follicle

    Structure consisting of a primary oocyte surrounded by granulosa cells.

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    Meiotic Division

    The process where primary oocyte divides to form a secondary oocyte and polar body.

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    Secondary Oocyte

    The result of the first meiotic division that gets ovulated and can be fertilized.

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    Progesterone

    Hormone secreted during the luteal phase crucial for preparing the uterus for implantation.

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    Fertilization Trigger

    Event that activates the second meiotic division of the secondary oocyte.

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    Ovarian Cycle

    Cyclic changes in the ovaries during reproductive years, part of the menstrual cycle.

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    Corpus Albicans

    Degenerated form of the corpus luteum if fertilization does not occur.

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    Menstrual Cycle Duration

    Timeframe for menstrual cycles, typically 23 to 35 days, average 28 days.

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    Estrogen

    Hormone primarily secreted during the follicular phase that aids in follicle development.

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    Oocyte Reservoir

    The pool of primary follicles at birth that produce ova throughout life.

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    Polar Body Function

    Byproduct of meiotic division that typically disintegrates and does not participate in fertilization.

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    Atretic Follicles

    Follicles that regress and stop developing during the follicular phase.

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    Hypothalamus-Pituitary Axis

    The hormonal control system involving the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to regulate reproductive hormones.

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    Estrogen Production

    The hormone produced by developing follicles during the follicular phase, crucial for female reproductive growth.

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    Ovum Release

    The process where a mature egg (secondary oocyte) is expelled from the ovary during ovulation.

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    FSH and LH Roles

    Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are key regulators of the menstrual cycle, stimulating follicle development and ovulation.

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    Cycle Interruption

    The menstrual cycle is interrupted by pregnancy or menopause, halting the phases of follicular and luteal development.

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    GnRH Function

    Gonadotropin-releasing hormone that stimulates the anterior pituitary to release hormones for reproduction.

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    Menstrual Cycle Phases

    Consists of three phases: menstrual, proliferative, and secretory.

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    Estrogen decline

    During menopause, ovarian estrogen production decreases significantly.

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    Source of estrogen post-menstruation

    The corpus luteum is responsible for estrogen production after ovulation.

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    Study Notes

    Physiology of Reproductive Glands: The Female Reproductive System

    • The female reproductive system is designed to enable the union of genetic material and to house/nourish offspring until independent survival
    • The system comprises the upper and lower genital tracts along with accessory sex glands
    • The upper genital tract includes ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and cervix
    • The lower genital tract consists of the vagina and vulva
    • The vulva refers to the external genitals

    Learning Outcomes

    • Describe the physiological functions of the female reproductive system, emphasizing the gonads
    • Describe the factors controlling female gonad function
    • Describe hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle
    • Describe uterine changes during the menstrual cycle
    • Outline menopause

    Introduction: Reproduction

    • Reproduction relies on the union of male and female gametes to form a new individual
    • Male and female reproductive systems work together to enable genetic material union
    • The systems include gonads, reproductive tracts, and accessory sex glands
    • The female reproductive system encompasses the housing and nurturing of offspring until independence

    Female Reproductive Functions

    • Oogenesis: The production of ova (eggs)
    • Reception of Sperm: Receiving sperm
    • Transport of Sperm and Ovum: Transporting sperm and ovum to the union site (fertilization)
    • Fertilization/Conception: The union of sperm and ovum
    • Embryo and Fetus Development: The development of the fertilized ovum into an embryo (first two months), then a fetus
    • Gestation/Pregnancy: Maintaining the developing fetus until independent survival in the outside world
    • Placenta Formation: The formation of the placenta, an organ facilitating exchange between mother and fetus
    • Parturition: Giving birth to the baby
    • Lactation: Nourishing the infant with milk production after birth

    Female Reproductive Organs

    • Ovaries: The primary female reproductive organs (gonads); two in number. They produce ova (gametes) and sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone)
    • Oviducts (Fallopian Tubes): Oviducts are involved in picking up the ova upon ovulation and serve as the primary site for fertilization
    • Uterus: A muscular, expandable organ that houses and nourishes the developing fetus during pregnancy and is also the site of menstruation
    • Cervix: The lower portion of the uterus, containing a single opening allowing sperm entry and acting as a passageway for childbirth.
    • Vagina: A muscular, expandable tube connecting the uterus to the external environment; it’s involved in menstruation, sexual intercourse, and childbirth.
    • Vulva: Collective term for external female genitalia (labia majora, labia minora, and clitoris)
    • Clitoris: An erotic structure located at the anterior end of the labia minora

    Oogenesis

    • Oogenesis is the development of immature oocytes into mature ova

    • It begins in utero, during fetal development

    • It ends at menopause.

    • At birth, a normal ovary contains around 1-2 million primary oocytes

    • There's a continuous decline in the number of primary oocytes after birth

    • Steps in oogenesis are similar in both sexes regarding chromosome duplication and division

    • Just before ovulation, the primary oocyte completes its first meiotic division producing 2 daughter cells, one secondary oocyte, and a polar body.

    • The secondary oocyte is ovulated and fertilization would initiate its second meiotic division.

    • If fertilization doesn't occur, the secondary oocyte will not complete the second meiotic division.

    Ovarian Cycle

    • The ovarian cycle consists of alternating follicular and luteal phases
    • Follicular phase: Characterized by maturing follicles; produces mature egg, and culminating in ovulation
    • Luteal phase: Dominated by the corpus luteum, which prepares the reproductive tract for pregnancy by secreting progesterone and estrogen.
    • The ovarian cycle is interrupted by pregnancy or terminated by menopause.

    Menstrual Cycle

    • Cyclical changes occur in the ovaries (ovarian cycle) and uterus (uterine cycle).
    • Known as menstrual cycles in females of reproductive age
    • Cycle durations vary between 23 and 35 days, with an average of 28 days

    Menstrual Cycle and Hormonal Control

    • The hypothalamus and pituitary axis regulate the menstrual cycle
    • Hypothalamus: Releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)
    • Pituitary releases follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)
    • Estrogen and progesterone are produced by the ovaries in response to these hormones

    Uterine Cycle

    • The uterine cycle is associated with hormonal fluctuations during the ovarian cycle
    • Outward manifestation of these cyclical changes is menstrual bleeding.
    • The cycle involves the menstrual, proliferative, and secretory/progestational phases

    Menopause

    • Unique to females
    • Cessation of menstrual cycles, typically in middle age (45-55 years)
    • Menopause before age 40 is considered premature
    • Traditionally attributed to a limited supply of ovarian follicles at birth
    • Recent research suggests a hypothalamic change may trigger menopause instead of aging ovaries
    • A change in hypothalamic-pituitary sensitivity to estrogen feedback occurs during perimenopause
    • Menopause may protect against pregnancy in older women
    • Preceded by a period of progressive ovarian failure, including increasingly irregular cycles and dwindling estrogen/progesterone levels.
    • Ovarian estrogen production declines dramatically, though small amounts continue to be produced by other tissues.
    • The loss of estrogen primarily affects the skeleton and cardiovascular system.

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    Test your knowledge of the female reproductive system with this quiz. Answer questions about its anatomy, functions, and hormonal interactions. Perfect for biology students looking to reinforce their understanding of women's health.

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