Lecture on the Female Reproductive System

Overview

• Introduction to the female reproductive system, paralleling earlier discussions of the male reproductive system.
• Focus on anatomy and function, including membranes and structures.

Key Structures

Membranes

• Peritoneum: Covers various organs, including the urinary bladder and uterus.
  • Forms a U-turn over the uterus and wraps around the rectum and intestines.
• Serosa: Special tissue on the top of the uterus.
• Adventitia: Found on the sides of the uterus.

Main Organs

Ovaries

• Two ovaries, partly hidden, connected to fallopian tubes.

Fallopian Tubes

• Connect ovaries to the uterus.
• Fimbriae: Finger-like projections at the entrance of the fallopian tube.

Uterus

• Location: Tucked behind the bladder; not clearly labeled in some models.
• Structure:
  • Fundus: Rounded top part.
  • Body: Central part.
  • Cervix: Lower part, serves as the entrance/exit.
• Layers:
  • Serosa: Covering on the outside.
  • Perimetrium: True visceral layer beneath serosa.
  • Myometrium: Muscular middle layer.
  • Endometrium: Inner layer, essential in menstruation and pregnancy.
    • Stratum Basalis: Permanent layer.
    • Stratum Functionalis: Grows and sheds monthly.

Vagina

• Vaginal Canal: Muscular tube leading to the outside of the body.
• Rugae: Allow for stretching.

External Genitalia

• Mons Pubis: Fatty area over the pubic bone.
• Labia:
  • Majora: Outer fold, analogous to the male scrotum.
  • Minora: Inner fold, rich in mucous glands.
• Glands:
  • Greater Vestibular Gland: Smaller, located posteriorly.
  • Lesser Vestibular Gland: Larger, located anteriorly.
• Clitoris: Erectile tissue, not visible in all models.

Supporting Structures

Ligaments

• Suspensory Ligament: Holds the system in place.
• Mesovarian: Contains blood vessels to the ovary.
• Ovarian Ligament: Anchors the ovary to the uterus.
• Uterosacral Ligament: Holds the uterus in a tilted position.
• Round Ligament: Not visibly detailed in this session.

Pathways and Functions

Ovulation and Menstrual Cycle

• Follicles:
  • Primordial Follicles: Present at birth.
  • Primary and Secondary Follicles: Develop through hormonal influence.
  • Graafian Follicle: Ready for ovulation.
• Corpus Luteum: Produces progesterone; degenerates if no pregnancy occurs.
• Corpus Albicans: Degenerate form of corpus luteum.

Fertilization and Pregnancy

• Fertilization typically occurs in the fallopian tube.
• Ectopic Pregnancy: Implantation outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tube.

Miscellaneous

• Pelvic Muscles: Including the urogenital diaphragm, controlling various sphincters and supporting the pelvic floor.

Recap

• Understanding of the anatomy and functions of the female reproductive system with a focus on structures, pathways, and cycles.
• Discussion of reproductive health issues such as endometriosis and ectopic pregnancy, including their implications.