Female Reproductive System

Signs of Puberty

Breasts develop Period begins Hips widen Body hair develops

External Organs

Labia Minora- inner, folds of mucous membrane

Labia Majora- outter, folds of skin and erectile tissue that enclose openings

Clitoris- sexual organ, only known function is pleasure, made of erectile tissue

Hymen- thin membrane that may cover the external vaginal opening

Internal Organs

Vagina- a tubular organ that serves as a passageway from the uterus to the outside of the body.

Uterus (womb)- hollow, muscular, pear shaped, accommodates growth of baby.

Endometrium- inner lining of uterus, either prepares the uterus for implantation or menstrual flow.

*Endometriosis- inflammation of endometrium; can spread into fallopian tubes

Internal Organs (continued)

Fallopian Tubes- extending from the uterus, two thin tubes where sperm and egg meet; lined with hair like cilia which moves fertilized egg to the uterus.

Ovaries- almond-sized structures suspended on either side of the uterus that produce the female hormone (estrogen) Also produce eggs

Eggs- (ovum) female reproductive cell, contains ½ of instructions needed for development, DNA.

Cervix- lower end of the uterus that extends down into the vagina; #2 site of cancer

*Hysterectomy- removal of the female reproductive organs

Female Reproductive System

Breasts

-Made up of: Fibrous tissue- supportive Adipose tissue- fat Glandular tissue- mammary glands

Mammogram- x-ray of breast to identify lumps

Mastectomy- removal of breast (cancer)

Female Reproductive System

Other Information:Menstruation: shedding of endometrium monthly

(period). Menopause- reproductive system slows down (period

fades, hot flashes, hormones fluctuate).Gynecologist- doctor that specializes in the female

body.Toxic Shock Syndrome- bacteria growth from

tampons; can cause illness or death.Ectopic Pregnancy- a fertilized egg implants itself in

the fallopian tubes wall; can lead to a miscarriage

Phases of Menstrual CyclePhases of Menstrual Cycle

Review Questions

1. What are the signs of puberty in females?

2. What do the ovaries produce?

3. Where is a fertilized egg implanted?

4. How does the endometrium function?

5. What procedures are used in cases where cancer is present in the reproductive system?