Female Reproductive structure & function terms Flashcards
chemicals secreted into the bloodstream that cause bodily reactions; work in pairs to maintain a healthy balance to keep the body’s internal environment healthy
hormones
the oval-shaped structures on each side of
the uterus that are the primary sex organs in females; secrete the hormones estrogen and progesterone
ovaries
are found within the ovaries and
contain the immature ova, or eggs
graafian follicles
contains one-half of the necessary components of a new life and is produced by the ovaries every 28 days
mature ovum
a hormone that prepares the uterus for
a fertilized egg; plays a vital role in the menstrual cycle and is important in the prevention of osteoporosis
Estrogen
a hormone that is responsible for changes in the uterine lining in preparation for implantation of a developing embryo; necessary to prepare and maintain the uterus for a fertilized ovum
Progesterone
two of these extend approximately 4 inches from the sides of the uterus toward the ovaries
fallopian tubes
houses and protects the developing fetus; its muscular tissue is able to expand as the fetus grows
uterus
the narrowed section of the uterus that dilates during the birth process to allow delivery of the fetus
cervix
acts as the passageway for the penis during sexual intercourse and as the birth canal during the birth process
vagina
the external structures of the female reproductive system
vulva
elongated erectile tissue located beneath
the anterior portion of the labia
clitoris
two layers of tissue that cover and protect the clitoris, the urethral meatus, and the vaginal opening
labia
a region of pigmented tissue at the center surface of each breast
areola
the center of the areola
nipple
