Female Reproduction

Question 1

List the functions of the female reproductive system.

Answer 1

Production of female gametes
Production of hormones
Site of nourishment and development of the embryo

Question 2

Draw a labelled diagram showing the structures of the female reproductive system.

Answer 2

.

Question 3

Describe the anatomical arrangement and the function of each part of the female reproductive tract.

Answer 3

Internal genetalia: ovaries (source of germ cells, endocrine organ, lies on surface of broad ligament), fallopian tubes (uterine tubes: fimbriae, infundibulum, ampulla, isthmus and intramural segment), uterus (perimetrium, myometrium and endometrium) and vagina
External genetalia: mons pubis (fatty pad over mons pubis), labia and clitoris (homologous with glands penis)

Question 4

Describe the sequence of events that occur during the menstrual cycle.

Answer 4

Days 1-5 spiral arteries constrict and functional layer is shed.
6-14 - Proliferative stage. (oestrogen) Build up tissue and simple glands formed.
15-28 - Secretory stage (after ovulation - LH surge) Progesterone glands enlarge and spiral arteries coil.

Question 5

Briefly explain the process of oogenesis.

Answer 5

Meiosis 1 is completed by one primary oocyte per month and then develops into a secondary oocyte
Meiosis 2 is completed at fertilisation

Question 6

Name the female reproductive hormones and state the function of each.

Answer 6

LH - Anterior pituitary. Surge indicates ovulation. Responsible for formation of corrupt luteum
FSH - Anterior pituitary. Growth and development of the follicle. Promotes secretion of oestrogen.
OESTOGEN - Builds and maintains uterine lining
PROGESTERONE - Builds and maintains uterine lining

Question 7

Summarise the physiological changes which occur during puberty and the menopause.

Answer 7

Growth of pubic and underarm hair
Development of breasts

Menopause occurs at around 52. Oestrogen no longer produced and eggs are no longer released from the ovaries.

Question 8

Describe events which occur during conception.

Answer 8

Head of spermatozoa bind to zona pellucida. Acrosomal reaction occurs. Mechanical propulsion and digestion of a pathway. Binds to plasma memebrane of egg and contents enter egg. Polispermy is prevented. Egg completes meiosis 2, membrane forms around the female chromosomal information. Male and female membranes break down and chromosomes become intermingled and then become organised.

Question 9

Describe the events that occur at implantation.

Answer 9

Implantation usually occurs around 8 days post fertilisation and the embryo attaches to endometrium and embeds with stroma.

Question 10

Describe the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.

Answer 10

During pregnancy increased amounts of oestrogen and progesterone are produced to maintain the uterus lining. This is done by the corpus luteum and the placenta.

Question 11

Describe the role of oxytocin during labour and explain how its release is controlled.

Answer 11

Head of foetus pushes against cervix -> nerve impulses from cervix to brain -> brain stimulates posterior pituitary -> oxytocin -> uterus -> stimulates uterine contractions and foetus to move towards the cervix

Question 12

List and describe different methods of birth control.

Answer 12

Mini pill - progesterone only
Pill - Oestrogen and progesterone

Prevent ovulation