Biology

Female Reproductive System

The female reproductive system comprises sex organs (internal and external). These organs are responsible for sexual activities in females. The reproductive organ attains maturity at the onset of puberty. The average age for a girl reaching puberty is 11 years. However, it varies from person to person and can be between 8-14 years. Let’s learn about the various parts in detail here.

female reproductive system

The External Genitalia

Vulva

The vulva is the external opening in a female’s body. The vagina is part of the vulva. Further, the vulva comprises of-

Labia

The labia often termed as lips are folds of skin around the vaginal opening. Similarly, the outer lips are labia major Labia majora are fleshy and covered with pubic hairs whereas the inner lips are labia minora. These folds protect the opening of the vagina and urethra.

Clitoris

The clitoris is present at the point of meeting of inner labia and forming a little hood. This hood is the clitoral hood. The clitoris contains many nerve endings, therefore, it is the center of female pleasure.

Mons Pubis

The mons pubis is a tissue found anterior to the pubic bone and pubic hair covers it. It provides cushioning during intercourse.

Bartholin’s Gland

These glands secrete mucus which helps during copulation. It is present on each side of the vaginal opening. These glands were discovered by Danish anatomist Caspar Bartholin.

The Internal Female Genitalia

The internal female organs are-

Vagina

It is the muscular and flexible part of the female reproductive system. Further, it is the canal that during copulation receives sperms. Moreover, it is responsible for childbirth and menstrual flow. It is present between the anus and urethra. The average length of the vagina is 3-4 inches.

In addition, it is extremely elastic which is why it is for childbirth. The thicker and extremely elastic property of muscle walls helps in childbirth. Further, It also helps in the penetration of the penis during intercourse.

The walls of the vagina have a mucous gland that secretes mucus. The walls of the vagina are acidic due to the presence of lactic acid. Lactic acid plays a great role in preventing the penetration of disease-causing microorganisms. Finally, the pH of the vagina is 4.5. Thus, lactobacilli are responsible for the balancing pH of the vagina.

Uterus

We often refer uterus as the womb which is an upturn pear-shaped reproductive organ. This organ is muscular and hollow. The uterus is the womb as it is the very place where a fetus grows. Also, it is somewhat located between the bladder and the rectum. The adult uterus is about 3-4 by 2-3 inches. Moreover, the uterus of the female reproductive system consists of three distinct layers-

Endometrium

The innermost layer of the uterus is the endometrium. It is the layer that sheds every month during menstruation. Epithelial tissues make endometrium. During the menstrual cycle, the walls of the endometrium grow thick as a result they are ready for implantation.

When there is no fusion of gametes this layer is shed off with blood. In addition, the proliferation is under the influence of female sex hormones (androgens) i.e., estrogen and progesterone.

The Menstrual Cycle

The average menstrual cycle of a woman is around 28 days but it varying from person to person. It can be of 21 to 35 days. There are four phases in the menstrual cycle:

  • Menstruation
  • The follicular phase
  • Ovulation
  • The luteal phase

Menstruation

It is the monthly discharge of blood with a layer of the endometrium. Further, it can go with cramps, bloating, mood swings, and irritability. Thus, it usually lasts for about 3-7 days.

The Follicular Phase

The hypothalamus sends a signal to the pituitary gland for the secretion of FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and ovaries produce around 5-10 follicle sacs. Thus, it is the follicular phase and it lasts for an average of 16 days.

Ovulation

The release of luteinizing hormone from the pituitary gland initiates the ovulation phase. This is the best time to get pregnant. Further, it lasts for 24hours and is around the 14th day of the menstrual cycle.

Luteal Phase

During the luteal phase, the lining of the uterine wall gets thicker in order to prepare for a possible pregnancy. This phase is after ovulation and before menstruation. The egg released gets converted into corpus luteum. The egg gets contracted if not fertilized. It causes a decreased level of female sex hormones and the initiation of menstruation.

Menopause

It happens usually around the age of 45-50 years but can vary from person to person. This phase marks the end of menstruation. It is usually diagnosed if the lady had her 12 months without periods.

Myometrium

It is the middle layer which is also the thickest one. The smooth uterine myocytes form the myometrium. It causes uterine contractions during childbirth.

Perimetrium

It is derived from the peritoneum. Perimetrium is a serosal layer. Its secretion of fluid helps to reduce friction and provides lubrication.

Fallopian tubes

The female reproductive system consists of a pair of fallopian tubes or oviducts. It connects the ovary and uterus. Moreover, is the route through which fertilized egg is transferred from ovary to uterus. It comprises hair-like cilia which carry the egg.

The fallopian tubes have the following four parts-

  • Infundibulum- A funnel-shaped organ opening into the pulmonary artery. It catches the released eggs.
  • Fimbriae– These are the minute finger-like in appearance at the ends of each fallopian tube.
  • Isthmus– Isthmus connects the body with the cervix.
  • Ampulla- Ampulla is the place of fertilization and is the broadest part of the fallopian tube.

Ovaries

The pair of ovaries is the primary female sex organs that are in correspondence to the testes of males. Further, it is a place of formation of eggs (ovum). It also secretes estrogen and progesterone which are the female sex hormones. As it secretes hormones, thus, it is an endocrine gland.

Further, the pair of whitish ovaries lie sideways of the uterus. It is further classified into the part of the cortex and an inner medulla. The cortex comprises stroma and ovarian follicles. Moreover, they are usually absent in the medulla.

The secretion of hormones starts at the onset of puberty. It is responsible for the development of secondary sexual characters in females.

FAQs on Female Reproductive System

Question 1- What are the main parts of the female reproductive system?

Answer 1- The parts of the female reproductive system are-

  • Vulva
  • Ovaries
  • Fallopian tubes
  • Vagina
  • Uterus

Question 2- Difference between male and female reproductive systems?

Answer 2– The reproductive organs of males are usually outside the body whereas of females it is mostly inside. The male reproductive system is responsible for the transfer of sperms. On the other hand, the female reproductive system is responsible for the development and nourishing of the fetus.

Question 3- Why is it important to study the male and female reproductive systems?

Answer 2– It is important to study the reproductive system and their respective organs as it is a major part of human life. Moreover, it is also quite necessary for the survival of species. By the healthy knowledge of the reproductive system, one gets aware of the diseases which can occur and their prevention too.

Question 4- What are the most common female reproductive health issues?

Answer 4- The most common female reproductive health issues are-

  • Uterine fibroids
  • PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
  • STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) like HIV/AIDS gonorrhea, Chlamydia, genital herpes.
  • Interstitial Cystitis.
  • Endometriosis
  • Gynecologic cancer
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