Ch. 8 Vocabulary

Gametes

Sex Cells

Ovum

The female sex cell.

Sperm

The male sex cell.

Gonads

Organs that produce gametes.

Fertilization

Union of the nuclei of the ovum and sperm.

Ovaries

Produces the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Fallopian tubes (Oviducts)

Carry the ovum from the ovary to the uterus.

Fimbriae

Sweeps the ovum into the fallopian tube following ovulation.

Uterus (Womb)

Where the embryo and fetus develops.

Cervix

Separates the vagina and uterus and holds the fetus.

Vagina

Extends from the cervix to the outside of the body.

Vulva

External genitalia including the labia, clitoris, and vaginal office.

Female Perineum

The area between the anus and vagina.

Mammary Glands (Breasts)

Organs containing milk ducts.

Menstrual Cycle

Changes in the ovaries and uterus driven by hormones.

Menarche

The beginning of the first menstrual period.

Ovulation

The release of a mature ovum from the ovary.

Corpus Luteum

An empty follicle that secretes progesterone to maintain the uterine lining.

Gestation

The 40-week period of pregnancy.

Estrogen

A group of essential sex hormones primarily produced in the ovaries.

Progesterone

A hormone produced mainly by the ovaries to regulate the menstrual cycle as well as pregnancy.

Menopause

The gradual ending of the menstrual cycle, typically beginning at ages 45-55.

Endometrium

The inner lining of the uterus.

Placenta

Attaches to the uterine wall during pregnancy.

Perimetrium

The outermost layer surrounding the uterus.