Female Reproductive System Flashcards
Ovaries
organs that produce and store eggs (oocytes). Females have two ovaries that alternate releasing a single egg once a month for one chance at fertilization.
Follicle
a layer consisting of small cells; they surround, nourish, and protect a single egg.
Corpus luteum
the structure that remains when the egg leaves the follicle during ovulation.
Fimbriae
finger-like projections found at the end of the Fallopian tube that help sweep the egg from the ovary into the Fallopian tube during ovulation.
Fallopian tube (oviduct)
the structure that the egg is released into during ovulation. It is also the site of fertilization and tubal ligation.
Endometrium
the blood-rich tissue that lines the inside of the uterus. When a female becomes pregnant, the embryo implants into the endometrium, which will thicken to increase blood supply to the embryo. When a female is not pregnant, the endometrium thins and is shed during her menstrual cycle.
Cervix
the neck of the uterus; it is also the site that must dilate (widen) during pregnancy.
Uterus
also known as the womb. It is the site of pregnancy.
Vagina
site of sperm deposit; it is also known as the birth canal.
pathway of an egg
Ovary -> Fallopian tube (where egg can be fertilized) -> Endometrium (where fertilized egg implants into the uterus)
What is tubal ligation?
This is a permanent form of birth control for women who do not want to have children. This procedure requires cutting and tying off the Fallopian tube. The Fallopian tube is the site of fertilization, so when it is disconnected, the egg and sperm cannot unite, and no pregnancy occurs.