Lecture Notes: Female Reproductive System

Introduction

Bladder: Located behind the pelvic bone, near the pubic symphysis.
Clitoris: Analogous to the glans penis; similar cardiovascular networks.
External Structures: Labia majora and labia minora.
Vagina:
- Small area, stratified squamous epithelium, thin muscle coating.
- Contains mucus-secreting glands and immune response tissue.
Cervix: Opening to the uterus.
Uterus:
- Muscular structure with an important inner layer, the endometrium.
- Endometrium is rich in epithelial cells, connective tissue, and blood vessels.
- Prepares for a fertilized egg during the menstrual cycle.
Fallopian Tubes and Ovaries:
- Fallopian tube extends from the uterus, connects to the ovary.
- Ovarian ligament holds the ovary in place.
- Ovary is not directly connected to the fallopian tube.

Vascular Network: Extensive blood vessels maintain tissue health.
Uterine Wall Components:
- Different parts like fundus, isthmus, and body.
- Myometrium (muscle) and endometrium (lining).
Fallopian Tube Sections:
- Ampulla and infundibulum with fimbriae.
- Tube is open to the pelvic cavity.
Ovary: Connective tissue (tunica albuginea) and cortex.

Follicle Development:
- Stages from primary to quaternary follicles.
- Focus on oocyte and primordial follicle.

Oogonium: Developing ovum begins mitosis before birth.
- Produces ~2 million primary oocytes in fetal development.
- Primary oocytes enter meiosis but pause at prophase until puberty.
Puberty Initiation:
- Hypothalamus secretes GnRH, stimulating LH and FSH release.
- LH stimulates thecal cells, leading to estrogen and progesterone production.
- FSH aids in estradiol production.
Reduction of Oocytes:
- Reduction from 2 million to ~400,000 primary oocytes by puberty.
- Only a small fraction develop beyond first and second polar bodies.
Secondary Oocytes:
- Await sperm interaction while diploid.
- Meiosis completes upon sperm penetration, leading to fertilization.