female reproductive system Flashcards
Main functions of the female reproductive system
To produce the egg cells (singular, ovum; plural, ova) for reproduction
To transport the ova to the site of fertilisation (fallopian tubes)
To provide a safe and favourable environment for the foetus to develop (uterus)
To produce female sex hormones that maintain reproductive cycle
Ovaries (func.)
sites of gamete production
Ovaries (features)
Located on either side of the uterus
Has a bumpy surface → the bumps are follicles, each consisting of a single developing egg cell surrounded by cells that nourish and protect it
Follicles also produce oestrogen and progesterone (by the corpus luteum)
Only one follicle will release a single egg/oocyte in a cycle
Oogenesis (def.)
process of producing oocytes
Fallopian tubes (func.)
site of fertilisation
Fallopian tubes (features)
The released egg (from the ruptured follicle) enters the fallopian tube and will get swept away towards the uterus by cilia
If sperm are present, fertilisation may take place in the upper part of the fallopian tube
If the released egg is not fertilised, it is shed during menstruation and a new follicle matures during the next cycle
Uterus (func.)
the actual site of pregnancy
Uterus (features)
Has a thick muscular wall lined with a blood-rich layer of tissue (endometrium)
An embryo implants in the endometrium and grows there
Cervix (func.)
oepns up into the vagina, allowing the flow of menstrual blood into the vagina and directs the sperms into the uterus
Cervix (features)
Narrow neck at the bottom of the uterus
When the woman is not ovulating, the cervix is covered in thick mucus that serves as a protective barrier
Vagina (func.)
Opens to the outside just behind the opening of the urethra
During intercourse, the vagina serves as a repository for sperm
Vagina (features)
A thin membrane called the hymen partly covers the vaginal opening → can be broken by sexual intercourse or vigorous physical activity
