Chapter 28F: Female Reproductive System: Uterus and Fertilization

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to the female reproductive system, including fertilization, uterine structures, blood and nerve supply, and the uterine cycle, based on the provided lecture notes.

Fertilization

The process that needs to occur within 12 to 24 hours of the secondary oocyte making its way into the uterine tube.

Uterine tube (Fallopian tube)

The structure where fertilization usually occurs, specifically between the ampulla and the isthmus; it provides nutrients and secretions from PEG cells.

PEG cells

Cells in the uterine tube that provide nutrients, secretions, and help complete capacitation.

Capacitation

A process mentioned as being completed with the help of PEG cells, essential for sperm's ability to fertilize.

Uterus

The primary structure of the female reproductive system, serving as a place for nutritional support, mechanical protection for the embryo, and waste removal. It is typically pear-shaped, about three inches by two inches, and usually bends anteriorly.

Uterosacral ligament

A suspensory ligament that provides support for the uterus.

Round ligament

A suspensory ligament that provides support for the uterus.

Cardinal ligament

A suspensory ligament that provides support for the uterus.

Fundus (of uterus)

The superior, rounded portion of the uterine body.

Isthmus (of uterus)

The inferior portion of the uterine body where the body ends.

Cervix

The inferior portion of the uterus that extends from the isthmus to the vagina, projecting about half an inch into the vagina.

Infundibulum

The first part of the uterine tube, near the ovary.

Ampulla

The middle portion of the uterine tube, where fertilization ideally occurs with the isthmus.

External os (External orifice of the uterus)

The opening surrounded by the distal end of the cervix, leading into the cervical canal.

Cervical canal

The constricted passageway that opens into the uterine cavity of the body.

Uterine arteries

Blood vessels branching from the internal iliac artery that supply blood to the uterus.

Ovarian artery

A blood vessel arising from the abdominal aorta that supplies blood to the uterus.

Hypergastric plexus

A plexus that provides autonomic nerve fibers to the uterus.

Sacral segments S3 and S4

Segments of the sacral vertebrae that provide nerve supply to the uterus.

Segmental block (Epidural)

An anesthetic procedure (analgesic) used during labor to relieve pain, targeting the lower thoracic vertebrae towards L1.

Myometrium

The thickest portion of the uterine wall, constituting about 90% of the uterus's mass, composed of longitudinal, circular, and oblique muscle layers, providing strength for childbirth.

Endometrium

The glandular and vascular tissue comprising about 10% of the uterus, supporting the physiological demands of a growing fetus, with uterine glands opening onto its surface.

Perimetrium

The outermost layer of the uterus, continuous with the peritoneal lining of the abdomen, covering the fundus and posterior surface of the uterine body.

Estrogen

A hormone that causes uterine glands, blood vessels, and epithelium to change with the phases of the monthly uterine cycle.

Uterine cycle (Menstrual cycle)

A repeating series of changes in the endometrium, typically lasting 28 days (ranging from 21-35 days), responding to the hormones of the ovarian cycle.

Menses

A phase of the uterine cycle occurring during the ovarian follicular phase.

Proliferative phase

A phase of the uterine cycle occurring during the ovarian follicular phase.

Secretory phase

A phase of the menstrual cycle occurring during the luteal phase (post-ovulatory phase).