11.1 Female Reproductive Organs

The female reproductive system is a complex network of organs working in harmony. From the ovaries producing eggs and hormones to the fallopian tubes facilitating fertilization, each part plays a crucial role in reproduction and overall health.

The uterus, vagina, and external genitalia 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

• Oocyte production (oogenesis) occurs in ovarian follicles
• Hormone secretion
  • Estrogen produced by granulosa and theca cells in follicles
  • Progesterone secreted by corpus luteum after ovulation
• Ovarian cycle regulated by hypothalamus and anterior pituitary hormones
  • Follicular phase: follicle development
  • Ovulatory phase: release of mature oocyte
  • Luteal phase: 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
  • Infundibulum: funnel-shaped opening near ovary
  • Ampulla: widest section, site of fertilization
  • Isthmus: narrow portion connecting to uterus
  • Intramural (uterine) part: passes through uterine wall
• Fimbriae: finger-like projections at distal end sweep ovulated oocyte into tube
• Wall consists of three layers
  • Mucosa: innermost layer with ciliated and secretory cells
  • Muscularis: middle layer of smooth muscle
  • Serosa: 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
  • Perimetrium: outer serous layer
  • Myometrium: middle muscular layer
  • Endometrium: 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
  • Proliferative phase: tissue growth and vascularization
  • Secretory phase: glandular secretion and preparation for implantation
• Myometrium composed of smooth muscle fibers
  • Contract during labor to expel fetus
  • Contract during menstruation 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 vestibule 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
• Rugae: transverse folds in vaginal wall allow for expansion (during intercourse, childbirth)

Functional Aspects of Vagina

• Serves as passageway for menstrual flow
• Acts as receptacle for sperm during sexual intercourse
• Forms part of birth canal during labor
• Vaginal microbiome maintains acidic pH
  • Dominated by Lactobacillus 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

• Mons pubis: fatty pad of tissue overlying pubic symphysis
  • Covered with pubic hair after puberty
• Labia majora: outer folds of vulva
  • Contain sebaceous and sweat glands
  • Protect inner structures
• Labia minora: inner folds surrounding vaginal and urethral openings
  • Rich in blood vessels and nerve endings
• Clitoris: 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 Skene's glands

Physiological Functions of External Genitalia

• Sexual arousal and stimulation
  • Clitoris and labia minora engorge with blood during arousal
  • Bartholin's glands 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