The female reproductive system is a complex network of organs working in harmony. From the producing eggs and hormones to the facilitating fertilization, each part plays a crucial role in reproduction and overall health.
The , , and complete this intricate system. These structures support pregnancy, childbirth, and sexual function while maintaining a delicate balance of hormones and microorganisms essential for reproductive health.
Structure and Function of Ovaries
Anatomical Features of Ovaries
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Paired, almond-shaped glands located in pelvic cavity, one on each side of uterus
Consist of outer cortex containing ovarian follicles and inner medulla with blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves
Held in place by several ligaments
Suspensory ligament
Ovarian ligament
Broad ligament
Primary Functions of Ovaries
production () occurs in ovarian follicles
Hormone secretion
produced by granulosa and theca cells in follicles
secreted by corpus luteum after ovulation
regulated by hypothalamus and anterior pituitary hormones
: follicle development
: release of mature oocyte
: corpus luteum formation and hormone production
Anatomy and Physiology of Fallopian Tubes
Structural Components of Fallopian Tubes
Extend from ovaries to uterus, approximately 10-12 cm long
Divided into four regions
: funnel-shaped opening near ovary
: widest section, site of fertilization
: narrow portion connecting to uterus
Intramural (uterine) part: passes through uterine wall
: finger-like projections at distal end sweep ovulated oocyte into tube
Wall consists of three layers
: innermost layer with ciliated and secretory cells
: middle layer of smooth muscle
: outermost layer
Functional Aspects of Fallopian Tubes
Ciliated cells create currents to transport oocyte
Secretory cells produce nutrient-rich fluid for oocyte and sperm
Fertilization typically occurs in ampulla
Peristaltic contractions of muscular layer assist in moving oocyte or zygote towards uterus
Structure and Function of Uterus
Anatomical Features of Uterus
Pear-shaped, muscular organ located in pelvic cavity between urinary bladder and rectum
Consists of three main parts
Fundus: superior dome-shaped portion
Body: main part, largest section
Cervix: inferior portion connecting to vagina
Uterine wall has three layers
: outer serous layer
: middle muscular layer
: inner mucosal layer
Supported by ligaments
Broad ligament: extends from lateral pelvic walls
Round ligament: helps maintain anteversion
Uterosacral ligament: connects posterior uterus to sacrum
Physiological Functions of Uterus
Endometrium undergoes cyclic changes in response to hormones
: tissue growth and vascularization
: glandular secretion and preparation for implantation
Myometrium composed of smooth muscle fibers
Contract during labor to expel fetus
Contract during to shed endometrial lining
Serves as site for implantation and fetal development
Expands significantly during pregnancy to accommodate growing fetus
Anatomy and Physiology of Vagina
Structural Components of Vagina
Fibromuscular tube extending from cervix to of external genitalia
Vaginal wall consists of three layers
Mucosa: inner layer lined with non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium
Muscularis: middle layer of smooth muscle
Adventitia: outer layer of connective tissue
: transverse folds in vaginal wall allow for expansion (during intercourse, childbirth)
Functional Aspects of Vagina
Serves as passageway for
Acts as receptacle for sperm during sexual intercourse
Forms part of during labor
maintains acidic pH
Dominated by species (produce lactic acid)
Helps protect against infections (yeast, bacterial vaginosis)
Undergoes cyclic changes in response to hormonal fluctuations
Increased lubrication and elasticity during ovulation
Changes in thickness and moisture levels throughout menstrual cycle
Structure and Function of External Genitalia
Anatomical Components of Vulva
: fatty pad of tissue overlying pubic symphysis
Covered with pubic hair after
: outer folds of vulva
Contain sebaceous and sweat glands
Protect inner structures
: inner folds surrounding vaginal and urethral openings
Rich in blood vessels and nerve endings
: highly innervated erectile structure
Composed of glans, body, and crura
Primarily responsible for sexual arousal
Vestibule: area between labia minora
Contains vaginal and urethral openings
Houses openings of Bartholin's and
Physiological Functions of External Genitalia
Sexual arousal and stimulation
Clitoris and labia minora engorge with blood during arousal
secrete mucus to lubricate vaginal opening
Protection of internal structures
Labia majora and minora cover and protect vaginal and urethral openings
Urinary function
External genitalia help direct urine flow
Skene's glands may play a role in lubrication of urethra
Sensory function
Rich innervation provides sensory feedback during sexual activity and urination