Aim: What are the structures and functions of the female reproductive system?

I. Female reproductive system – has three main functions:

• Produces eggs in the ovaries

• Provide a pathway fro sperm to reach egg

• Provides a temporary home for the developing embryo

A. Ovaries – a pair of reproductive organs that produce eggs as a result of oogenesis.

1.Eggs mature within the ovaries.

2.Only one egg is released (ovulation) once a month until the female reaches menopause.

3.Within the ovaries, the eggs are stored in follicles (a hollow pocket of cells).

4.Ovulation – when the mature egg is released from the follicle and ovary.

B. Oviduct (Fallopian Tube)

1.Egg travels through this structure to get to the uterus.

2.Site of fertilization.

3.Only 4 inches long.

C. Uterus (Womb)

1.Thick walled, muscular structure

2.Where the embryo develops until birth

What do you call twins when they are in the uterus?

Oviduct (Fallopian Tube)

Uterus

D. Cervix

1.A muscular ring at the bottom of the uterus.

2.Dilates (opens up) during birth in order for baby to come out.

E. Vagina (Birth Canal)

1.Receives the male gametes during mating.

2.The baby comes out of the vagina during birth.

Q. Where does fertilization occur in the human female?

Luke? Some day …

you may have to provide your children with this information. Scary thought.

Why did I know that you were going to say vagina? Remember children, the sperm fertilizes the egg in the oviduct!!

Q. What is ovulation?

Oui, oui, oui – it is Pierre’s turn!

You are correct my French musician! Ovulation is when an egg is released from the ovary.

Q. Why is the uterus soooooooo muscular?

Candace? Your thoughts about uterus muscularity?

Yes Candace, the uterus is muscular because it has to carry a baby that may weigh up to 10 lbs and do not forget that it has to contract during birth to push the baby out.

http://kidshealth.org/teen/sexual_health/girls/female_repro.html

http://www.rcs.rome.ga.us/hargett/anatomy/female/diagram.htm