Fertility and Conception Flashcards
What three layers does the uterus consist of?
- Thin outer layer of connective tissue
- Myometrium (thick middle layer with smooth muscle cells)
- Endometrum
What are the two parts of the ovaries?
- Thick cortex with developing follicle
2. Medulla with blood supply and nerves
What is a primordial follicle enclosed by?
- Single layer of granulosa cells
2. Basal lamina
How does a primordial follicle develop into a primary follicle and then secondary follicle??
Enlargement of oocyte
Then growth of thecal cells outside the basal lamina. Granulusa cells will start to secrete fluid that collects in a central cavity. This will finally become a tertiary follicle
What are the two primary functions of an ovary?
- Release oocyte for reproduction and menstruation
2. Hormone production for female phenotype
How many oocytes are present before birth?
7 million
What is the ovarian reserve?
Number of follicles visible in the ovary at any given time
Usually 10-20 follicles
What are the three phases of the ovarian cycle?
- Follicular phase (1-13)
- Ovulatory phase (14)
- Luteal phase (15-28)
What is the main reason for the growing follicle during the follicular phase?
Growing antrum due to secretion of fluid from the granulosa cells
What are the two main cell types of the ovaries? What hormones act on what cells?
Granulosa cells and thecal cells
- FSH acts on granulosa cells to increase AMH and oestrogen production
- LH acts on thecal cells to increase androgen production
What are the four suspensory ligaments of the uterus?
Broad ligament
Uterosacral ligament
Round ligament
Lateral ligament
What are the four main functions of the uterus?
- Transport sperm from the site of deposition to uterine tubes
- Provides a suitable environment for implantation and nourishment
- Provides mechanical protection of the foetus
- Expels the mature foetus at the end of pregnancy
What are the stages of the uterine cycle?
- Menstrual phase (1-5)
- Proliferative phase (6-14)
- Secretory phase (15-28)
What are the three parts of the uterine tube?
- Infundibulum
- Ampulla
- Isthmus
Infertility can be caused by (three mains)?
Issue with eggs
Issue with transport
Issue with implantation
In what stage are primordial oocytes arrested at birth?
Prophase 1 of meiosis 1
In what stage is the secondary oocyte arrested?
Metaphase II
When is meiosis II completed?
At fertilisation
What are 4 long-term consequences of menopause?
- Osteoporosis
- CVD
- Vaginal dryness and atrophy
- Alzheimers
What are the hormonal treatment options for menopause?
- Oestrogen (reverses symptoms of low oestrogen)
- Progesterone
- Protects endometrium
- Not required in women without uterus - Testosterone
- Increases overall energy level
- Enhances sexual desire and arousal
What are the non-hormonal treatment options for menopause?
- Lifestyle measures
- Replens
- SSRIIs
- Gabapentin
Risk of hormone replacement?
Can increase chances of breast and endometrial cancer
Benefits of hormone replacement therapy?
Can alleviate symptoms, protect bones, reduce incidence of colorectal cancer and improve quality of life
How do you diagnosis premature ovarian insufficiency?
- Women under 40
- Amenorrhoea for 4 months
- FSH > 30U/L on two occasions 6 weeks apart
What are the risks of POI?
CVD, memory loss, osteoporosis, fertility issues, death, decreased sex drive, atherosclerosis, depression
Treatment of POI?
- Hormone replacement
- Fertility treatment
- Psychological support