Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the ovaries?
What is the primary function of the ovaries?
Which structure serves as the site of embryo fertilization?
Which structure serves as the site of embryo fertilization?
What are the main components of the broad ligament?
What are the main components of the broad ligament?
What is the role of the cervix during pregnancy?
What is the role of the cervix during pregnancy?
Signup and view all the answers
Which phase of the follicle is characterized by the presence of an antrum filled with follicular fluid?
Which phase of the follicle is characterized by the presence of an antrum filled with follicular fluid?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the purpose of the mesovarium?
What is the purpose of the mesovarium?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the functional outcome of the utero-ovarian ligament?
What is the functional outcome of the utero-ovarian ligament?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following layers is NOT part of an antral follicle?
Which of the following layers is NOT part of an antral follicle?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Female Reproductive Tract - Key Structures and Functions
- Ovaries: Produce female gametes (ova) and hormones (estrogen, progesterone).
- Oviducts (Fallopian Tubes): Transport gametes, site of fertilization, embryo attachment and development.
- Uterus: Transports sperm, supports pregnancy, expels the fetus, produces hormones.
- Cervix: Physical barrier to the uterus; secretes mucous (varies with cycle), forms cervical plug during pregnancy.
- Vagina/Vestibule/Vulva: Organ of copulation.
- Mammary Glands: Nourish the newborn.
Uterine Development
- Formed by fusion of paramesonephric ducts (PD) and urogenital sinus (UGS).
Broad Ligament Function
- Supports and suspends ovaries, oviducts, uterus, cervix, and anterior vagina.
- Continuation of peritoneum, houses blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves.
- Composed of three main parts:
- Mesovarium: Attaches and supports the ovary; contains blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves at the hilus.
- Mesosalpinx: Supports the oviduct, forms a bursa-like structure around ovary, and positions infundibulum during ovulation.
- Mesometrium: Supports the uterine horns and body.
Ovary-Uterus Attachment
- Utero-ovarian ligament: Connects ovary to uterus. Supported by the mesovarium.
Ovary Functions
- Produce female gametes (ova).
- Produce hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Follicle Development Stages
- Primordial: Smallest, most immature follicle.
- Primary: Oocyte surrounded by a single layer of cells.
- Secondary: Extra cell layers, no cavity, surrounded by zona pellucida.
- Developing Antral (Tertiary): Similar to secondary, but contains an antrum filled with follicular fluid.
- Antral (Graafian): Mature tertiary follicle, preovulatory follicle.
Antral Follicle Layers
- Granulosa cell layer: Surrounds the oocyte.
- Theca interna: Layer of cells inside theca externa.
- Theca externa: Outer layer of connective tissue.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
This quiz focuses on the key structures and functions of the female reproductive tract, highlighting the roles of various organs such as the ovaries, oviducts, uterus, cervix, and vagina. Additionally, it covers aspects of uterine development and the broad ligament's function. Test your knowledge on female reproductive anatomy and physiology!