Female Pelvis and Perineum Lecture

A set of vocabulary flashcards based on the lecture on the female pelvis and perineum, covering key terms, definitions, and clinically relevant concepts.

Vagina

The internal portion of the female genitalia, serving as the canal that connects the external genitals to the uterus, playing a crucial role during intercourse, childbirth, and menstrual flow.

Vulva

The collective term for the external parts of the female genitalia, including the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal opening, important for protection and sexual sensation.

Cervix

The lower, narrow part of the uterus (approximately the bottom third) that opens into the vagina; it plays a key role during labor when it dilates to allow birth.

Uterine Tube

Also known as the fallopian tube, it connects the ovary to the uterus and is the site where fertilization often occurs before the fertilized egg travels to the uterus.

Peritoneal Reflections

Pouches of peritoneum in the pelvis that create spaces such as the vesicouterine pouch (between bladder and uterus) and rectouterine pouch (between uterus and rectum), which can be significant during surgeries or pathological conditions.

Caldocentesis

A medical procedure performed to remove fluid from the rectouterine pouch using aspiration, often utilized in diagnosing certain reproductive health conditions.

Uterine Fundus

The uppermost part of the uterus, located above the body, which expands significantly during pregnancy and is important for supporting the developing fetus.

Angle of Version

The angle created between the axis of the vagina and the axis of the cervix, critical for understanding uterine positioning and can influence labor.

Angle of Flexion

The angle formed between the axis of the uterus and the axis of the cervix; this impact can change with conditions such as retroflexion or during pregnancy.

Antiflexed Uterus

A normal anatomical position where the uterus is tilted forward towards the bladder, commonly found in individuals assigned female at birth.

Retroflexed Uterus

A condition where the uterus bends backward towards the rectum; it can lead to complications such as infertility and may influence a person’s experience of menstruation.

Endometrium

The innermost layer of the uterus consisting of a mucous membrane that thickens during the menstrual cycle in preparation for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.

Hysterectomy

The surgical procedure for the removal of the uterus, commonly performed for various conditions such as fibroids, prolapse, or cancer.

Tubal Ligation

A permanent form of birth control where the fallopian tubes are either cut or blocked to prevent pregnancy, affecting the passage of eggs.

Ectopic Pregnancy

A serious condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube, which can lead to significant health complications.

Ovary

The female reproductive organ responsible for producing ova (eggs) and hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, essential for reproductive health.

Primary Follicles

Early-stage ovarian follicles that contain immature eggs; their development is critical in the female reproductive cycle.

Graafian Follicle

A mature ovarian follicle that has developed and is ready to release an egg during ovulation.

Corpus Luteum

A temporary hormone-secreting structure that develops from the Graafian follicle after ovulation; it plays a key role in maintaining early pregnancy.

Corpus Albicans

The scar tissue formed from the degeneration of the corpus luteum if pregnancy does not occur, marking the end of the luteal phase.

FSH

Follicle-stimulating hormone; a critical hormone in the reproductive cycle that promotes the development of ovarian follicles.

LH

Luteinizing hormone; triggers ovulation and the transformation of the follicle into the corpus luteum, essential for reproductive timing.

IUD

Intrauterine device used for birth control, available in hormonal and copper varieties, that prevents fertilization and implantation.

Round Ligament

A ligament that connects the uterus to the labia majora; it plays a vital role in supporting the uterus during pregnancy.

Skenes Glands

Paraurethral glands that produce a lubricative fluid, contributing to female sexual arousal and comfort.

Bartholin's Glands

Glands located near the vaginal opening that produce lubrication, significant for sexual activity and comfort during intercourse.

Vaginal Fornix

The recess around the cervix within the vagina, which is important during gynecological examinations and childbirth.

Obstetrical Perineum

The area of skin between the anus and the vaginal vestibule that can undergo significant changes during childbirth.

Pelvic Floor

A group of muscles and connective tissue that support the pelvic organs and can impact bladder control and sexual function.

Cardinal Ligament

A vital ligament that supports the uterus and contains the uterine arteries and veins, crucial for maintaining pelvic organ stability.

Mittelshmer's

Pain experienced during ovulation, often indicative of ovarian activity.

Deep Dorsal Vein of the Clitoris

Vein that parallels the anatomical structure of the deep dorsal vein of the penis, associated with sexual arousal.

Neovagina

A surgically created vagina formed during vaginoplasty using existing tissues, often for gender-affirming surgeries.

Metoidioplasty

Surgical procedure that creates a phallus from the existing clitoral erectile tissues, typically undergone in gender-affirming transitions.

Phalloplasty

A surgical process that constructs a neophallus using skin from other parts of the body, primarily for transgender men or sexual reassignment.

Orchiectomy

The surgical removal of the testes, often performed as part of gender-affirming procedures.

Vaginectomy

Surgical procedure involving closure or removal of the vaginal opening, which may be conducted for various medical reasons.