Female Reproductive System Overview

Ovaries

• Responsible for oogenesis: the production of female gametes (ova)

• Also responsible for the secretion of female sex hormones (estrogen and progestins)

Uterine Tubes

• Uterine tubes (fallopian tubes) carry oocytes (egg cells) to the uterus.

• Fertilization must occur in the uterine tubes before the egg cell reaches the uterus.

Uterus

• Muscular chamber that provides mechanical protection and nutritional support for the developing embryo and fetus.

• Contractions of the uterus push the baby out during birth.

• The Cervix is the opening to the uterus, at the end of the vagina.

Vagina

• An elastic muscular tube extending between the uterus and the vestibule (external space surrounding the opening the vagina)

• Hymen: an elastic epithelial fold which partially or completely blocks the entrance to the vagina before the first occasion of sexual intercourse or tampon use.

External Genitalia

• Vestibular glands: produce secretions that keep the outside of the vagina moist and lubricate the opening during sexual intercourse.

• Clitoris: derived from the same embryonic structures as the penis in males. Contains erectile tissue and engorges with blood during sexual arousal.

External Genitalia

• Labia Minora: smooth hairless fold of skin that surrounds and protects the clitoris, urinary opening, and vaginal opening.

• Labia Majora: another fold of skin that contains adipose tissue and surrounds and protects the female external genitalia.

Mons Pubis

• Prominent bulge above the external genitalia, created by adipose tissue.