The Female Reproductive System The female reproductive organs include the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina.

The Female Reproductive System (cont.) The ovaries are two reproductive glands that produce egg cells and estrogen. Egg cells, or ova (singular = ovum), are female reproductive cells. A female is born with 200, ,000 immature ova in her ovaries. Each ovum is enclosed in a small, hollow ball called a follicle. During puberty, the immature ova become mature ova. What do you think is the difference between the two?

The Female Reproductive System (cont.) Ovulation is the release of a mature ovum from an ovary and is part of the menstrual cycle, a monthly series of changes that take place in the female reproductive system. The menstrual cycle and timing of ovulation vary from one female to another. The length of the cycle may also vary. Some females have a very regular menstrual cycle, others do not.

The Female Reproductive System (cont.) Once the ovum leaves the ovary, it enters the fallopian tube, a four-inch-long tube that extends from the ovary to the uterus. The uterus is a muscular organ that supports the fertilized egg during pregnancy. The vagina is a muscular tube that connects the uterus to the outside of the body.

Fertilization The process of fertilization, or an ova and sperm uniting, occurs in the fallopian tube. If sperm are present when an ova moves through the fallopian tube, a sperm might penetrate the egg. If there are no sperm present in the fallopian tube, the ova leaves the body during the process of menstruation.

Menstruation Menarche, the onset of menstruation, typically begins between the ages of 8 and 13. During the menstrual cycle: The ovary releases a mature ovum. The lining of the uterus prepares for a fertilized egg. The lining breaks down and leaves the body (with the ovum) since the ovum has not been fertilized.

Menstrual Protection There are several products available (pads, panty shields, tampons) that absorb the menstrual flow. These products should be changed every 4-6 hours or toxic shock syndrome (TSS) may develop. TSS is an illness caused by the presence of harmful bacteria in the body. Symptoms include a sudden high fever, headache, diarrhea, rash, vomiting, dizziness, and fainting. Prompt medical care is needed if TSS symptoms occur.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) PMS is a group of changes that can affect a female before her menstrual period. Some of these changes include headache, backache, tenderness of the breasts, bloating, weight gain, mood changes, and depression. The exact cause of PMS is unknown, but scientists believe that it is probably due to hormonal changes. There is no cure, although the symptoms can be lessened with medication.

7 Ways To Care For The Female Reproductive System 1.Choose abstinence. 2.Have regular medical checkups. 3.Keep track of your menstrual periods. 4.Practice good health habits during your period. 5.Exercise regularly and reduce caffeine and salt in the diet. This may reduce menstrual cramping. 6.Perform regular breast examinations. 7.Discuss any concerns you have with your parents or another trusted adult.