Female Reproductive

System
Reproductive System of Humans
Reproductive Functions of Female:
 Produces eggs (ova)
 Receives sperm
 Incubates and nourishes the embryo and fetus
 Gives birth

All of these processes are regulated and coordinated by

hormones secreted by:
 Hypothalamus
 Pituitary gland
 Ovaries
Frontal View of Female Reproductive System
Side View of Female Reproductive
System
Reproductive System of Humans
Major Organs of Female Reproductive System:
• Ovaries: Produce ova and sex hormones.
• Follicles: A single egg with surrounding cells
that nourish and protect it.
• Ovulation & Oogenesis: After puberty, each month one
immature egg (oocyte), is released from ovary.
• Pituitary hormone FSH (follicle stimulating
hormone) causes a follicle to enlarge.
• Another pituitary hormone LH (luteinizing
hormone) causes the secondary oocyte to be
released by the ovary during ovulation.
Oogenesis and Ovary Structure
Major Organs of Female Reproductive System:
• Oviducts (Fallopian Tubes): Transport the egg
from the ovary to the uterus.
• Uterus: Incubates the embryo/fetus.
• Endometrium: Inner mucous lining, which thickens each
month in preparation for pregnancy.
• If fertilization does not occur, endometrium breaks down
and is discharged during menstruation.
• If fertilization occurs, the egg implants in the
endometrium which supports its growth until the
placenta develops.
Reproductive System of Humans
Major Organs of Female Reproductive System:
 Cervix: Lower portion of the uterus, which projects into
the vagina.
 Vagina: Thin walled, muscular chamber.
 Receives the sperm and penis
 Acid pH kills bacteria and sperm cells
 External structures:
 Clitoris: Equivalent to male penis.
 Labia minora: Skin folds that border vaginal opening.
 Labia majora: Protect entire genital region.
Stages of Female Reproductive Cycle