Exam 4 (Lecture 51) - Female Repro Flashcards
Describe the structure and function of the ovary.
NOT ON EXAM
Describe the structure and function of the uterine tube.
NOT ON EXAM
Describe the structure and function of the uterus.
NOT ON EXAM
Describe the structure and function of the vagina.
NOT ON EXAM
Describe the structure and function of the vulva.
NOT ON EXAM
Describe the structure and function of the mammary gland.
Parenchyma
- milk-secreting alveolar cells (epithelial cells) eventually form hollow, circular structures called alveoli
- alveoli = fundamental milk-secreting units of the mammary gland
Nipple
- an enlarged area of the epithelium which is the external connection to the internal milk-secreting system
- develops on the surface
As pregnancy progresses, lobules of alveoli develop and fill with secretion (milk); stromal tissue is reduced to thin bands
- Early pregnancy = stoma > alveoli/lobules
- Later pregnancy = alveoli/lobules > stroma
Describe the lactation cycle.
Milk production tends to increase for the first 3-4 weeks of lactation and then begins to slowly decline through the end of lactation
Cows are usually dried up after 305-day lactation periods
Neonates are weaned usually 4-5 weeks postpartum
Back pressure of milk within the alveoli gradually inhibits the secretion of milk by the alveolar epithelial cells
- Results in the regression of the alveolar cells and small ducts
Involution requires 4-6 weeks
Within 1-2 months, the secretory (alveoli) and excretory (duct) systems regress and are once again replaced