Chapter 17: The Female Reproductive System

Vocabulary flashcards covering anatomy, combining forms, and key terms related to LO 17.1–17.7 of The Female Reproductive System.

ovaries

Paired female gonads that produce oocytes (eggs) and secrete estrogen and progesterone.

uterus

Hollow, muscular organ where implantation occurs and the fetus develops; inner lining is the endometrium.

uterine tubes (Fallopian tubes)

Ducts through which oocytes travel from the ovary to the uterus; site of fertilization.

cervix

Lower portion of the uterus that opens into the vagina.

vagina

Muscular canal extending from the cervix to the outside of the body; birth canal.

clitoris

External female erectile organ.

labia majora

Outer folds of skin protecting the vaginal opening.

labia minora

Inner folds of skin within the vulvar region.

mammary glands

Milk-producing glands in the breast; nourish the newborn.

gynecology

Study of the female reproductive system.

obstetrics

Medical specialty dealing with pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.

amni(o)

Combining form meaning amnion, the fetal membrane surrounding the developing fetus.

cervic(o)

Combining form meaning cervix.

colp(o)

Combining form meaning vagina.

episi(o)

Combining form meaning vulva; used in terms like episiotomy.

galact(o)

Combining form meaning milk.

gynec(o)

Combining form meaning female.

hyster(o)

Combining form meaning uterus.

lact(o)

Combining form meaning milk.

mast(o)

Combining form meaning breast.

men(o)

Combining form meaning menstruation.

metr(o)

Combining form meaning uterus.

oophor(o)

Combining form meaning ovary.

ov(i)/ov(o)

Combining forms meaning egg (ovum).

ovari(o)

Combining form meaning ovary.

perine(o)

Combining form meaning perineum.

salping(o)

Combining form meaning fallopian tube.

uter(o)

Combining form meaning uterus.

vagin(o)

Combining form meaning vagina.

vulv(o)

Combining form meaning vulva.

estrogen

Primary female sex hormone; promotes development of female characteristics and regulates the menstrual cycle; produced by the ovaries.