FEMALE REPRODUCTION

Functions of the Female Reproductive System Produce the egg cell Place to support and nourish dev. human being

Female Functions Uterus: Place for dev. human to grow Size of a fist Cervix: UTERUS meets VAGINA here Vagina: Receives sperm Birth canal Menstrual flow exits Urethra: Above vagina Urine exits

Female Functions Ovaries: Produce eggs (ova) all eggs when born Produce estrogen & progesterone reg. release of egg Ovulation: egg is released from ovary Fallopian Tubes: Transport egg from OVARY to UTERUS

What is the menstrual cycle? Monthly series of hormone controlled changes that prepare the uterine lining for pregnancy Average cycle is 28-days Ovulation occurs on 14th day

What happens? Uterine lining thickens due to release of hormones One of 2 things happens: If egg is fertilized- maintains thickened lining (PREGNANT) If egg is NOT fertilized- menstruation occurs

Preventing problems of the Female Reproductive System Vaginal Irritation: Redness, itching, or mild pain around opening of vagina NO vaginal discharge DO NOT wear tight jeans, wet clothes, or thong underwear Avoid scented soaps, sprays

Preventing problems of the Female Reproductive System Menstrual cramps: OTC, anti-inf. Meds Exercise & eat right Reduce caffeine and sugar Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) Poisoning of the body Hygiene!

Annual Pelvic Exam Includes: Breast exam Genital exam Pap Smear Examines cells of cervix Can detect many types of cancer Cervical Cancer: On the rise due to STD’s Ovarian Cancer: Mostly in older women Breast Cancer: BSE Mammogram Can happen to ANYONE!

Potential Warning Signs of Breast Cancer

Exit Questions What are the functions of the female reproductive system? What is ovulation Where are the fallopian tubes located? What is their function?