PP2.H2.1 +D1 The Female Reproductive System
The Female Reproductive System:
- The female reproductive system consists of:
- Ovaries (paired) - release ova for fertilisation and produce hormones which stimulate other parts of the female reproductive tract and support pregnancy
- Uterine tubes (paired) - Provide an environment to support the ovum during fertilisation and delivery of the zygote to the uterus
- Uterus (single) - provides an environment to support embryo development
- Vagina (single) - receives the male-sex organ (penis) and the seminal fluid
- External genitalia
- The structure and function of the female reproductive system is influenced by hormones
- The hormonal milieu is found in three phase during an individual's life:
- Prepubertal phase - the structural components of the female reproductive system are present but not stimulated to allow reproduction
- Reproductive phase - the female reproductive system is actively able to support the development of an embryo and foetus Its structure and function changes on a cyclical basis, influenced by hormones of the menstrual cycle
- Post menopausal phase - reproductive capacity is exhausted and the components of the female reproductive tract cease to be stimulated by hormones of reproduction and atrophy
Diagram of Female Reproductive System:
