The Female Reproductive System Flashcards
What are the functions of the female reproductive system ?
To make eggs
Provide the perfect environment for fertilisation
Protect and look after the foetus until birth
What is the function of the ovaries ?
Where the egg and hormones (Oestrogen and Progesterone ) are made
What does the ovarian bursa do ?
Provides protection to the ovaries
What is the function of the oviducts / fallopian tubes and uterine tubes ?
Where fertilisation takes place
Supports early development of embryos
Transports fertilised eggs to the uterus
What is the structure of the infundibulum ?
Part of the uterine tube is the infundibulum which contains finger like projections known as fimbriae – spread over surface of ovary to capture the eggs as they are released from the ovaries.
Cilia move ova along the tubes.
What is the function of the uterus ?
Fertilized eggs implant here
Provides the environment for embryo development and foetal growth
What are the 3 layers of the uterus ?
Perimetrium , myometrium , endometrium
What the perimetrium ?
outer layer supports the shape of the uterus
What is the myometrium ?
middle layer muscular layer that is able to contract
What is the endometrium ?
inner layer where implantation occurs.
What is the function of the cervix ?
Muscular barrier to seal the uterus.
Provides protection from infection
Birth canal begins here
Usually closed
When would the cervix open ?
During periods and parturition
What is the function of the vagina ?
Copulatory organ Glands secrete lubrication and pheromones Birth canal Produces acidic mucus Shaped to fit the penis during mating
What is the function of the labia ?
Closes the entrance to the vagina
What is the function of the clitorus ?
Female sensory organ
