Female Reproductive System

Vulva (pudendum)

female external genitalia

Mons pubis

fatty tissue which covers the pubic symphysis. It is covered with hair

Labia majora

two vertical folds of fat filled skin which are homologous to the male scrotum. They contain sebaceous and sweat glands and are covered by hair.

Labia minora

medial to the labia majora

Clitoris

a small rounded tissue projection anterior to the labia minora which contains erectile tissue. The clitoris is the homologue of the penis.

Prepuce

hood of skin covering clitoris

Glans clitoris

 exposed portion of the clitoris

Perineum

diamond shaped area at base of pelvic cavity. This area is sometimes cut during childbirth as an aid to delivery in a surgical procedure called an episiotomy.

Hymen

membranous tissue covering vaginal opening before first intercourse

Vagina

cylindrical cavity extending from the vulva to the uterus

Uterus

small, pear shaped organ in which implantation and the growth and development of the fetus occurs

Cervix

inferior portion of uterus

Fundus

broad, superior portion of uterus

Uterine wall

made up of three layers: myometrium, endometrium, perimetrium

Uterine (fallopian) tubes

 two tubes approximately 5 inches in length containing ciliated cells which help to propel the oocyte through the tube

Infundibulum

expanded, distal end of the uterine tube which ends in fingerlike 

projections called fimbriae

fimbriae

helps direct the ovum into the uterine tube.

Ovary

almond shaped organs on either side of the uterus. The ovaries produce, nourish, and release ova as well as producing progesterone and estrogen.

Womb

Uterus