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Human Reproduction
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Human Reproduction
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The Female Reproductive System
Uterus
Ovary
Human reproduction is characterised by internal fertilisation. The foetus that forms from the zygote develops in the protection of the uterus. That is,
the female reproductive system is the site of the fusion of gametes, the development of the foetus, as well as birth. This system consists of the external and internal reproductive organs as well as auxiliary tissues.
Ovarian ligament
Fallopian tubes
Vagina
Uterus
The foetus develops in the uterus. Its wall
consists mainly of smooth muscle, the contractions of which play an important role in childbirth.
External reproductive organs
These organs are located on the outside of the body. They include the mons pubis, labia majora and labia minora, clitoris, vaginal opening and hymen.
Mons pubis
An external reproductive organ, a cushion of fatty tissue.
From puberty onwards, hair
grows on it, called pubic hair.
Urethral opening
An irregularly shaped opening located above the vaginal opening, through which urine passes
from the urinary bladder.
Clitoris
A 2–4 cm long, bean-shaped organ. Its stimulation plays an important role
in reaching orgasm.
Labia
Two sets of skin folds on both sides
of the vaginal opening. The outer ones, called labia majora, have hair on their outer surface, while the inner ones, called labia minora, are hairless.
Vaginal opening
It is covered partially by a membrane called hymen. Bartholin’s glands, which play an important role in lubricating
the vagina, open here.
Fallopian tubes
A pair of 10–13 cm long, curved canals through which the mature egg,
released by the ovary, reaches the uterus. They are the site of fertilisation.
Ovaries
Egg cells develop and mature in the ovaries. Once about every 28 days, a mature egg is released from the ovary, that is, ovulation takes place. When the egg cell enters the fallopian tube, fertilisation can take place.
Endometrium
The mucous membrane
lining the uterus, which is
sloughed off approximately every 28 days in a process called menstruation.
Vagina
During sexual intercourse,
sperm cells enter the vagina
then proceed to the fallopian tubes,
where they may fertilise an egg cell.
Internal reproductive organs
Reproductive organs that are found inside the body. These include the vagina, the uterus, the fallopian tubes and the ovaries.
