Female Reproductive System

Reproductive Organ (gonad)

Paired Ovaries

Reproductive Tract (egg —> outside of body)

Ovaries, Fallopian tubes (oviduct), Uterus, Cervix, Vagina

Paraurethral Gland

Secretes liquid during arousal/climax, orgasm.

Homologous to male prostate (same origin).

Yellow and branched out looking.

Greater Vestibular Glands

Produces Lubrication during arousal.

Homologous to male Bulbourethral glans.

Near opening of vagina. (Two small mushrooms).

Clitoris

For sexual arousal + orgasm (pleasure).

Homologous to Penis.

Mammary Gland

Produce milk to feed baby after birth.

Nutrients and passive immune to baby.

Mammary Gland - Colostrum

Lower in Fat, first week.

Contains Macrophages, Immunoglobin like proteins

Has moms antibodies

Mammary Gland - Mature milk

3-6% lactose, Higher Fat content

Stimulates Lactobacilli in intestines that can break down milk (lactose) because babies aren’t born with them

Ovary

Egg production, Hormone production (Estrogen + Progesterone)

Follicular Cells, Receive Follicular stimulating hormone

Oogenesis

Egg production + hormone production

Graafian Follicle

Matures Follicle, almost ready for ovulation

Oviduct (fallopian tube)

Extends form Ovaries to Uterus (not directly connected)

Draws egg into tube, Site of Fertilization

Transports off to uterus (cilia)

Uterus

Site of Implantation

Made of Muscle & lined with special blood engorged tissue

Will form Placenta if embryo implants

Cervix

Regulates entrance to Uterus

Protects upper reproductive tract (Small opening)

Dilates during childbirth

Cervical Mucus

Protects upper tract from pathogens

Thins during ovulation to let sperm through (leaves it more vulnerable though)

Endometrium

Is a Specialized lining that thickens in response to Estrogen and Progesterone.

Menstruation = Drop of Estrogen and Progesterone ---> loss in lining

Placenta

Attaches to the wall of the Uterus and connected to the baby by the Umbilical Cord

Gives baby oxygen, nutrients, removes waste

Labia Majora

Outside folds of skins, have pubic hair

Protect the inner parts

Diffuse pheromone like secretions

Labia Minora

Inside folds of skin

no hair or glands