1. Female Reproduction System

2. Mare’s anatomy: 1.Simple uterus 2.Unusual placenta arrangement 3.Inefficient cervical closure 4.Small uterine body 5.Two long, narrow uterine horns 6.Suspended in abdominal cavity by ligaments and connective tissue to the abdominal wall

3. Uterus Consists of a body, cervix, and two horns Elongated shape causes a lot of infection because it can’t drain efficiently Falls lower and lower with each pregnancy

4. Fallopian Tubes (oviducts) Site of fertilization Connect ovary and uterus

5. Ovaries Secrete the hormone estrogen Produces eggs or ova in the female

6. Fertilization: Sperm unites with the egg and produces a zygote

7. Cervix: Seals to prevent bacteria from entering The closure of the seal is vital to embryo survival The closure is controlled by hormonal levels and can be unstable Possible cause of early embryonic death

8. Placenta: Attached to the endometrial lining of the uterus by tons of tiny villi Transfers blood, oxygen, and nutrition to the baby

9. Vagina: Receives the sperm during mating Passageway during parturition (birth)