1. Female Reproductive System
One of the mechanisms that maintain life from one generation to another

2. External Female Reproductive Organs
Vulva – the external female reproductive organ
Includes
Labia Majora
Labia Minora
Clitoris
Hymen
Mons Veneris

3. External Female Reproductive Organs
Mons veneris
Clitoris
Urethra
Labia Minora
Vagina
Labia Majora
Anus

4. External Female Reproductive Organs
Labia Majora – heavy folds of skin that surround the opening of the vagina
Labia Minora – two smaller folds of skin located within the labia majora
Clitoris – a small structure located above the opening of the urethra made from erectile tissue
Hymen – a thin membrane that stretches across the opening of the vagina
Mons Veneris – the fatty tissue that covers the front of the pubic bone

5. Internal Female Reproductive Organs
The internal female reproductive organs consist of
Ovaries
Fallopian Tubes
Uterus
Vagina

6. Internal Female Reproductive Organs
Fallopian Tube
Uterus
Endometrium
Ova
Ovary
Cervix
Vagina

7. Internal Female Reproductive Organs
Ovaries – female reproductive glands that produce ova and estrogen
Ova – females are born with between 200,000 and 400,000 immature ova in her ovaries. Approximately 375 are released in a lifetime during ovulation

8. Internal Female Reproductive Organs
Each developing ovum is enclosed in a small, hollow ball called a follicle.
During a regular menstrual cycle, an ovum matures and is released from its follicle.
Ovulation is the release of a mature ovum from one of the two ovaries.

9. Internal Female Reproductive Organs
Fallopian Tubes – Also called an oviduct. Thin tubes that transport an ovum from the ovary to the uterus. Where fertilization occurs
Uterus – A muscular organ that receives and supports a fertilized ovum during pregnancy and contracts during childbirth
Cervix – the lowest part of the uterus.
Vagina – muscular tube that connects the uterus to the outside of the body

10. Female Reproductive System

11. What to Know About the Menstrual Cycle
Females often describe menstruation as their “period.”
The menstrual cycle usually occurs over 28 days; however, many teens have irregular cycles and the length of their menstrual cycles varies.
Menstruation usually lasts about five days; however, the number of days also may vary.

12. What to Know About the Menstrual Cycle
Days 1–5 Menstruation occurs. At the same time, a new ovum is maturing in the ovary.
Days 6–12  The uterine lining begins to thicken and the uterus prepares for ovulation and the possibility that an ovum will be fertilized.
Days 13–14  Ovulation occurs.

13. What to Know About the Menstrual Cycle
Days 15–20  The corpus luteum secretes hormones to support a pregnancy.
The corpus luteum is a temporary gland that secretes progesterone.
Progesterone is a hormone that changes the lining of the uterus.
If an ovum is fertilized, the corpus luteum continues to secrete progesterone throughout pregnancy.

14. What to Know About the Menstrual Cycle
Days 21–28  The corpus luteum disintegrates if an ovum is not fertilized. The cells in the lining of the uterus die without progesterone. The unfertilized ovum disintegrates. The menstrual cycle begins again with menstruation.

15. Female Reproductive Health
What does a pelvic exam include?
Examination of the internal female reproductive organs
A digital exam
Pap Smear – screening test which cells are scraped from the cervix
What is a yeast infection?
A vaginal infection caused by a fungal organism.
Thick, malodorus discharge, painful urination, vaginal itching

16. Female Reproductive Health
What is toxic shock syndrome (TSS)?
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a severe illness that results when vaginal bacteria secrete a toxin that gets into the bloodstream
Females can reduce the risk of TSS by changing pads tampons every four to six hours.

17. Protecting Female Reproductive Health
Breast Cancer – one of the most common types of cancer in women.
To help detect breast cancer early, women should do monthly breast examinations to check for lumps or changes.
With early detection and treatment, the chances of successfully treating breast cancer increase.

18. Protecting Female Reproductive Health
Practice Abstinence
Practice good menstrual hygiene habits
Keep a calendar to record menstrual information
Perform monthly breast exams
Have regular medical exams
Seek medical attention when you show signs of infection