Chapter 18 Female Reproductive System

What are the three steps of the ovarian cycle?

1. The developing follicle secretes estrogen. 2. A peak in estrogen levels in the blood stimulates the pituitary to release a flood of LH, which triggers ovulation. 3. Following ovulation, the remaining follicle cells develop into a corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone.

How many parts are there to the internal clitoris?

At least 18 distinct interacting functional parts including muscular, erectile, and sensitive tissues.

Why is efficacy of some female birth controls lower for "typical use?"

Because of human error, i.e. missed days and dosage.

When do females make their eggs? When do they finish making their eggs?

Begins before birth and finishes after fertilization of the egg.

Describe the anatomy and function of the vagina.

Distal end of the birth canal, through which baby exits. Exit point of endometrial lining during menses. Entry point for sperm.

Which method of female birth control is the most effective?

IUD 99.8% effective

Describe the anatomy and function of the cervix.

Inferior portion of the uterus that projects into the vagina; surrounds the opening to the uterus (cervical canal)

What are the organs of the vulva?

Labia; Clitoris; Vestibular Glands

What is the menstrual cycle?

Menstrual Cycle refers to the cyclic changes that occur in the uterus. Cycle depends on intricate interrelationships among the brain, ovaries, and endometrium.

How does the egg get inside the uterine tubes?

On the uterine tubes are fimbriae which are finger-like structures that drape over the ovary, but do not contact it. Fimbriae help uterine tubes to collect released oocyte.

How many eggs are created from one oocyte? How many polar bodies are created from one oocyte?

One 1 ovum and 3 polar bodies

What contractions in the uterus help with childbirth and also with shedding the uterine lining during menses?

Smooth muscle - myometrium

Which glans have more nerve endings, the clitoris or the penis?

The clitoris has 8000. The penis only 4000

What is oogenesis?

The process of making eggs in the ovaries

How does ovulation occur afterwards?

The rupture of the secondary oocyte from the ovary. The oocyte literally bursts out the side of the ovary. Because the ovary is not attached to the uterine tubes, the oocyte floats into the fluid of the pelvic cavity

If fertilization occurs, in what internal organ does it happen?

The uterine tubes is where fertilization occurs.

How does the ovarian cycle work?

This process occurs only in females who have reached puberty. Cells of the primary and secondary follicles produce estrogen. This stimulates development of the endometrium (inner lining of the uterus). Usually only one follicle completes development each month. In response to elevated estrogen levels, the pituitary releases a surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) LH stimulates ovulation & formation of the corpus luteum.

What is being cut in tubal ligation?

Uterine tube.

Where in the endometrium does the egg implant?

Uterus