L21 Ch27 Female Reproductive System Study Review

These flashcards cover the anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system, including oogenesis, the ovarian and uterine cycles, hormonal regulation, and postpartum structures like mammary glands.

What are the four main components of the female internal genitalia?

Ovaries, Uterine Tubes (Fallopian Tubes), Uterus, and Vagina

Which ligament is a large, sheet-like fold of peritoneum that connects and supports the ovaries, uterine tubes, and uterus?

Broad Ligament

Which ligament contains the major blood vessels supplying the ovary?

Suspensory Ligament

What is the specific name for the site where blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and nerves enter and exit the ovary?

Ovarian Hilum

What are the dimensions of an ovary?

Approx. $5\,cm$ long, $2.5\,cm$ wide, and $8\,mm$ thick

In which region of the ovary does gamete production (oogenesis) occur?

Cortex

What is the name of the diploid stem cells that begin the process of oogenesis during fetal development?

Oogonia

At what stage of meiosis are primary oocytes arrested during fetal development?

Meiosis $I$

Which hormone from the pituitary gland stimulates the development of ovarian follicles at puberty?

FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)

What structures in the primary ovarian follicle produce estrogen and provide nutrients to the oocyte?

Granulosa Cells

What is the name of the extracellular protein coat secreted by the oocyte that surrounds it during development?

Zona Pellucida

What is the fluid-filled cavity that characterizes a Tertiary (Graafian) follicle?

Antrum

What is the layer of granulosa cells that specifically surrounds the secondary oocyte in the tertiary follicle?

Corona Radiata

What is the dominant form of estrogen responsible for maintaining secondary sex characteristics and repair of the uterine lining?

Estradiol

Which hormone surge triggers ovulation?

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) surge

What temporary endocrine gland is formed from the remnants of the empty follicle after ovulation and primarily secretes progesterone?

Corpus Luteum

If pregnancy does not occur, what white, fibrous scar tissue does the corpus luteum decompose into after approximately $12$ days?

Corpus Albicans

In which specific part of the uterine tube does fertilization typically occur?

The distal two-thirds of the tube, particularly the ampulla

What are the finger-like projections at the end of the uterine tube that capture the released oocyte?

Fimbriae

What are the two layers of the endometrium, and which one is shed during menstruation?

The Functional Layer (which is shed) and the Basal Layer (which regenerates the functional layer)

Which layer of the uterine wall is composed of smooth muscle and is responsible for labor contractions?

Myometrium

Which phase of the uterine cycle is triggered by a decrease in progesterone and estrogen?

Menstrual Phase

Which phase of the uterine cycle is driven by increased estrogen and involves the regeneration of the functional layer?

Proliferative Phase

In the vulva, which outer folds of skin are homologous to the male scrotum?

Labia Majora

What structure is formed by the edges of the cervix where the vaginal canal wraps around?

Vaginal Fornix

Where are the lactiferous sinuses located, and what is their function?

They are expanded regions of the lactiferous ducts near the nipple used for milk storage

According to the transcript, at what age range does menopause typically begin?

Between ages $45$ and $55$

Why can menopause lead to osteoporosis?

Because of the significant decline in estrogen levels, which normally play a role in maintaining bone density