female reproductive tract Flashcards
1
Q
reproductive organs
A
- ovaries
- fallopian tubes (oviduct)
- uterus
- vagina
- vulva
- infundibulum
- endometrium
- cervix
- bladder
- urethra
- rectum
2
Q
ovaries
A
- in pelvic cavity
- germinal epithelium layer surrounds
- primary follicles (tiny sac-like structures) contains an immature egg
- primary follicle develops into a mature follicle
- after ovulation the Graafian follicle forms the corpus luteum
- release aggs
- produce progesterone and oestrogen
3
Q
fallopian tubes
A
- lined with cilia stretching to uterus
- infundibulum has finger-like outgrowths (fimbria)
- pathway between ovaries and uterus
- site of initial fertilisation and cell division
4
Q
uterus
A
- womb
- enlarged during pregnancy and returns to size after
- cervix projects into vagina : sperm enter and menstrual blood leaves
- sphincter muscles keep it closed to avoid miscarriage
- myometrium (thick involuntary muscles)
- endometrium (lining rich in blood)
- progesterone causes endometrium to thicken (implantation at blastocyst)
- blastocyst implants, develops and grows
- myometrium contraction allows for baby to be pushed
5
Q
what is distinctive about the human uterus?
A
- simplex uterus
- single cavity, no separation between the horns
6
Q
vagina
A
- muscular passage between uterus and outside body
- sperm are deposited
- forms birth canal
- acidic ph for health
7
Q
vulva
A
- no role in reproduction
- external genitalia
8
Q
clitoris
A
- small mass of erectile tissue
- sexual excitement
