Reproductive System Overview

A comprehensive set of 50 flashcards covering key vocabulary related to the reproductive system based on lecture notes.

Endometrium

The inner lining of the uterus, consisting of the astratum basalis and functionalis layers.

Fallopian Tubes

Two tubes that extend from the uterus, responsible for transporting fertilized eggs.

Isamus

The thickest part of the fallopian tubes.

Ampulla

The largest part of the fallopian tubes.

Infundibulum

The funnel-shaped end of the fallopian tube that helps in channeling the egg.

Ovary

Major reproductive organ that contains eggs in follicles.

Ovarian Ligament

Ligament that holds the ovary in an almond shape.

Suspensory Ligament

Ligament that angles the ovary laterally.

Mesosalpinx Ligament

Ligament that angles the ovary posteriorly.

Oogenesis

The process of formation of eggs.

Copulation

The act of sexual intercourse, occurs in the vagina.

Primary Oocyte

The initial stage of egg development that eventually undergoes maturation.

Secondary Oocyte

The stage of the egg that follows the primary oocyte.

Primary Follicle

The initial stage of the follicle surrounding the egg.

Mature Follicle (Graafian Follicle)

Advanced stage of the follicle ready for ovulation.

Ovulation

The process where a mature follicle ruptures, releasing an egg.

Corpus Luteum (CL)

The structure formed from a graafian follicle post-ovulation, secreting estrogen.

Corpus Albicans (CA)

The scar tissue formed from a ruptured follicle if fertilization does not occur.

Acidic Environment

The condition of the vagina that helps kill bacteria.

Bartholin Glands

Glands associated with the vagina that secrete mucus to lubricate.

Estrogen

A hormone produced by the follicles that influences sexual development and reproductive function.

Progesterone

A hormone involved in the later stages of menstruation and preparing the uterus for a potential pregnancy.

Menstruation

The monthly shedding of the uterine lining when fertilization does not occur.

Fertilization

The union of the sperm and egg, occurring within the fallopian tube.

Menstrual Cycle

The regular natural change that occurs in the female reproductive system that makes pregnancy possible.

Follicle

The ovarian structure that contains the developing egg and secretes hormones.

GnRH

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone, which stimulates the release of other hormones involved in reproduction.

LH

Luteinizing Hormone, which triggers ovulation and the development of the corpus luteum.

FSH

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone, responsible for stimulating the growth of ovarian follicles.

Luteal Phase

The phase after ovulation when the corpus luteum is active.

Menarche

The first occurrence of menstruation.

Menopause

The end of the menstrual cycles marking the end of a woman's reproductive years.

Spermatogenesis

The process of sperm cell development.

Ectopic Pregnancy

A pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube.

Hormonal Regulation

The control of reproductive processes through various hormones.

Fertilized Egg

An egg that has been successfully fertilized by a sperm.

Uterus

The organ where a fertilized egg can implant and develop.

Sexual Development

The process of physical changes that occur during puberty.

Reproductive Anatomy

The structural components of the reproductive system.

Cervix

The lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.

Endometrial Layer

The inner layer of the uterine wall which prepares for implantation.

Uterine Cycle

The cyclic changes in the endometrium due to hormonal variations.

Luteal Hormones

Hormones secreted by the corpus luteum, primarily progesterone.

Follicular Phase

The phase in the menstrual cycle before ovulation when follicles mature.

Ovarian Cycle

The series of events in the ovary corresponding with the menstrual cycle.

Vulva

The external part of the female genitalia.