The Female Reproductive System

The Female Reproductive Cell

• Egg (ovum)

The Female Reproductive System

UterusOvary

Uterine (Fallopian) tube

Urinary bladder

Urethra

Clitoris

Cervix

Rectum

Vagina

Anus

Vagina• The vagina connects

the cervix to the external genitals

• It is located between the bladder and rectum

• It functions :– As a passageway for

the menstrual flow– Female organ of

intercourse– As the birth canal

during labor

Vagina

Cervix

• The cervix connects the uterus to the vagina

• Entrance to the uterus

• Dilates during pregnancy

Cervix

• Consists of blood-enriched tissue that is released each month during menstrual cycle.

• Pear shaped organ about the size of your fist

• Houses the fetus during pregnancy

Uterus

Uterus

Figure 28.18cThe Uterus

Fallopian Tubes• Serve as a

pathway for the ovum to the uterus

• Where fertilization takes place

Fallopian Tubes

• Produce the female reproductive cell, egg/ovum

• The follicles in the ovaries produce the female sex hormones, progesterone and estrogen

• These hormones prepare the uterus for implantation for the fertilized egg

Ovaries

Ovaries

Female Reproductive System

• http://kidshealth.org/teen/sexual_health/girls/female_repro.html