Reproductive System- Female

Female Reproductive System A. Ovaries B. Duct System 1. Uterine tubes (fallopian tubes) 2. Uterus 3. Vagina C. External genitalia

A. Ovaries Composed of ovarian follicles (liquid-filled sac-like structures) Each follicle consists of Oocyte (immature egg)

Support for Ovaries Ligaments secure ovary to lateral walls of the pelvis attach ovary to uterus

B. Duct System 1. Uterine tubes (fallopian tubes) 2. Uterus 3. Vagina

1. Uterine (Fallopian) Tubes Receive the ovulated oocyte Provide a site for fertilization (egg + sperm) Attach to the uterus, supported by ligaments

Little or no contact between ovaries and uterine tubes *Fimbriae Finger-like projections at the distal end of the uterine tube “Wave” the oocyte in from the ovary

In the Fallopian Tubes *Peristalsis *Cilia Slowly move the oocyte towards the uterus (takes 3–4 days) Sperm must swim against the cilia Fertilization occurs inside the uterine tube Oocytes lives about 24 hours

2. Uterus Located between the urinary bladder and rectum Hollow organ Functions of the uterus Prepares for possible pregnancy Receives a fertilized egg Retains the fertilized egg Nourishes the fertilized egg (oxygen and nutrients)

Support for the Uterus Ligaments attached to the pelvis anchored anteriorly anchored posteriorly PREWARNING FOR NEXT PHOTO

Walls of the Uterus Endometrium Inner layer Allows for implantation of a fertilized egg Sloughs off if no pregnancy occurs (menses or menstruation) Myometrium—middle layer of smooth muscle Perimetrium (visceral peritoneum)—outermost serous layer of the uterus (see text for diagram p555)

Cervix —narrow outlet of uterus that protrudes into the vagina distal end of the uterus Opening for sperm into the uterus Dilates for childbirth

3. Vagina Tube from cervix to exterior of body Located between bladder and rectum Serves as the birth canal Passage for menses (menstruation) Receives the penis during sexual intercourse Hymen— vascular mucosa, partially closes the vagina until it is ruptured

4. External Genitalia (Vulva) A. Mons pubis B. Labia C. Greater vestibular glands D. Clitoris E. Orfices

A. Mons Pubis B. Labia Fatty area overlying the pubic symphysis Covered with pubic hair after puberty B. Labia Labia majora—hair-covered skin folds Labia minora—delicate, hair-free folds of skin

C. Vestibule and Greater Vestibular Glands Enclosed by labia majora Contains external openings of the urethra, vagina Greater vestibular glands One is found on each side of the vagina Secretes lubricant during intercourse

D. Clitoris Contains erectile tissue The clitoris is homologous to the penis: Hooded by a prepuce Composed of sensitive erectile tissue Becomes swollen with blood during sexual excitement

E. Orfices Vaginal orfice Urethral orfice

External Genitalia (Vulva) Figure 16.9