23: The Reproductive System (Female)
By the end of this section, you will be able to:
- Describe the structure of the organs of the female reproductive system
- Trace the path of an oocyte from ovary to fertilization
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- 23.1: External Female Genitals
- This page describes the female reproductive system's functions, including gamete and hormone production and fetal support. It highlights the anatomy located in the pelvic cavity, focusing on the ovaries as gonads and the external vulva structures. The vagina is discussed as a muscular canal for intercourse and childbirth, hosting beneficial bacteria to maintain acidity, with douching discouraged due to its disruptive effects on this balance.
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- 23.2: Ovaries
- This page provides an overview of the ovaries, the female gonads located in the pelvic cavity, highlighting their size, structure, and function. It details the outer cuboidal epithelium, the connective tissue tunica albuginea, the cortex where oocytes develop in follicles, and the medulla containing blood, lymph vessels, and nerves. Further exploration of the female reproductive system's structure and function will be presented later.
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- 23.3: Uterine Tubes
- This page provides an overview of the uterine tubes, also known as fallopian tubes, which connect the ovaries to the uterus. It outlines their sections: isthmus, ampulla, and infundibulum, with the ampulla being the primary site for fertilization. The structure of the tubes includes three layers: an outer serosa, a middle smooth muscle layer, and an inner mucosal layer containing mucus-secreting and ciliated cells that assist in moving the oocyte toward the uterus.
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- 23.4: Uterus and Cervix
- This page discusses the uterus, a muscular organ divided into three sections: fundus, body, and cervix, which aids sperm with cervical mucus. It also covers breasts, accessory organs for lactation, consisting of a nipple, areola, and mammary glands that produce milk through lactiferous ducts. Breast size varies based on fat tissue and is supported by suspensory ligaments.
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- 23.5: Breasts
- This page discusses the anatomy and function of breasts, which are accessory organs of the female reproductive system. Their primary role is to produce milk during lactation, facilitated by mammary glands and lactiferous ducts. The structure includes a nipple and areola, with changes occurring during pregnancy. Breast size, influenced by fat tissue, does not impact milk production, and connective tissue helps anchor the breasts to the skin.
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- 23.6: Exercises
- This page focuses on labeling exercises for the female reproductive system, covering anatomical structures like ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus, as well as associated ligaments. It includes identification tasks for specific parts such as tunica albuginea, corpus luteum, and different follicle types. Additionally, hormonal phases like the follicular phase and ovulation are highlighted, along with breast anatomy components like lactiferous ducts and ligaments.
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- 23.7: MODELS- Female Hemi-Pelvises, Torso, Breast and Ovary
- This page offers a comprehensive overview of female reproductive anatomy, detailing structures such as the fallopian tubes, uterus, vagina, vulva, clitoris, and ovaries. It discusses specific components, including the ampulla, fimbriae, cervix, and associated ligaments, alongside histological aspects like follicles and tissue layers. Serving as an educational resource, it enhances understanding of the female reproductive system's anatomy and histology.