Female Reproductive System
Signs of Puberty Breasts develop Period begins Hips widen Body hair develops
External Organs Labia Minora- inner, folds of mucous membrane Labia Majora- outter, folds of skin and erectile tissue that enclose openings Clitoris- sexual organ, only known function is pleasure, made of erectile tissue Hymen- thin membrane that may cover the external vaginal opening
Internal Organs Vagina- a tubular organ that serves as a passageway from the uterus to the outside of the body. Uterus (womb)- hollow, muscular, pear shaped, accommodates growth of baby. Endometrium- inner lining of uterus, either prepares the uterus for implantation or menstrual flow. *Endometriosis- inflammation of endometrium; can spread into fallopian tubes
Internal Organs (continued) Fallopian Tubes- extending from the uterus, two thin tubes where sperm and egg meet; lined with hair like cilia which moves fertilized egg to the uterus. Ovaries- almond-sized structures suspended on either side of the uterus that produce the female hormone (estrogen) A lso produce eggs Eggs- (ovum) female reproductive cell, contains ½ of instructions needed for development, DNA. Cervix- lower end of the uterus that extends down into the vagina; #2 site of cancer *Hysterectomy- removal of the female reproductive organs
Female Reproductive System Breasts -Made up of: Fibrous tissue- supportive Adipose tissue- fat Glandular tissue- mammary glands Mammogram- x-ray of breast to identify lumps Mastectomy- removal of breast (cancer)
Female Reproductive System Other Information: Menstruation: shedding of endometrium monthly (period). Menopause- reproductive system slows down (period fades, hot flashes, hormones fluctuate). Gynecologist- doctor that specializes in the female body. Toxic Shock Syndrome- bacteria growth from tampons; can cause illness or death. Ectopic Pregnancy- a fertilized egg implants itself in the fallopian tubes wall; can lead to a miscarriage
Phases of Menstrual Cycle
Review Questions 1. What are the signs of puberty in females? 2. What do the ovaries produce? 3. Where is a fertilized egg implanted? 4. How does the endometrium function? 5. What procedures are used in cases where cancer is present in the reproductive system?