Female Reproductive System

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering important terms and concepts related to the female reproductive system.

Ovaries

Female gonads that produce eggs (ova) and sex hormones.

Uterus

Muscular chamber that houses the developing fetus and expels it at birth.

Vagina

8 to 10 cm tube allowing for discharge of menstrual fluid and receipt of penis and semen.

Follicle

A bubblelike structure in which an egg develops; also the source of sex hormones.

Menopause

The cessation of menstruation, occurring typically between ages 45 to 55.

Oogenesis

The process of producing haploid gametes (eggs) through meiosis.

Hormones

Chemical substances that regulate various processes in the body, including the menstrual cycle.

Endometrium

The inner layer of the uterus that thickens and sheds during the menstrual cycle.

Menarche

The first menstrual period, often occurring around age 12.

Estradiol

A primary type of estrogen secreted by growing follicles during the menstrual cycle.

Corpus luteum

The structure formed from the follicle after ovulation that secretes progesterone.

Progesterone

Hormone that prepares the uterus for potential pregnancy.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

A hormone that triggers ovulation and stimulates the corpus luteum.

Follicular phase

The first phase of the ovarian cycle, marked by growth of follicles and secretion of estrogen.

Cervix

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

Granulosa cells

Cells in the follicle that support and nourish the developing egg.

Fimbriae

Finger-like projections at the end of the uterine tubes that catch the ovulated egg.

Pelvic floor

Muscle structure that supports the reproductive organs.

Secretory phase

Phase of the menstrual cycle where the endometrium thickens in preparation for potential pregnancy.

Clitoris

Sensory organ of the female reproductive system, primarily involved in sexual stimulation.

Breasts

Glandular tissues that develop during puberty and play a role in lactation.