FEMALE CYCLES & REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

scientific name of egg cell

ova (singular: ovum)

cilia

hairlike structures that sweep the egg cells in the oviduct to the uterus

zygote

fertilized ovum

ovaries

develops ova

oviduct / fallopian tubes

connects the ovaries to the uterus, site of fertilization

uterus

where the zygote implants itself to start development

endometrium

lining of the uterus

cervix

passage between the uterus and vagina that widens during menstruation to allow blood to flow

vagina

where sperms are deposited during sexual intercourse

vulva

opening of the vagina

progesterone

prepares the uterus for implantation and maintains the timing and duration of menstruation

estrogen

thickens the endometrium for potential pregnancy, controls the time and duration of mens

ovarian cycle

prepares the egg for maturity (28 days)

ovarian cycle: follicular phase

ova start to mature in the ovary

follicle

where egg cells mature in the ovary, surrounding the egg to protect and nourish it

ovarian cycle: ovulation

a mature ova is released from the ovary and best time for fertilization

luteal phase

the empty follicle becomes the corpus luteum

corpus luteum

empty follicle, produces progesterone and estrogen to prepare the uterus for pregnancy

menstrual cycle

a cycle of hormonal and physical changes in a female’s body, preparing it for potential pregnancy

menstruation

process where a mixture of blood and discarded tissues leave the female’s body through the vagina

OVARIAN CYCLE vs menstrual cycle

focuses on the ovary and the development and release of eggs

MENSTRUAL CYCLE vs ovarian cycle

focuses on the uterus and the preparation and shedding of its lining