PhysiologyLesson 1 of 1 in the course The Reproductive System

Female Reproductive System: Anatomy, Cycles, and Lifespan Changes

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

This lesson introduces the major structures of the ovarian reproductive system, from the external genitalia to the ovaries and uterine tubes. Understanding how these structures are arranged helps explain how an oocyte can be released, received, and transported.

The vulva is the collective name for the external female reproductive structures. The mons pubis is a fatty pad over the pubic bone, and the labia majora are larger, usually hair-covered skin folds. Medial to them are the thinner, more pigmented labia minora, which help protect the urethral opening and entrance to the reproductive tract.

All flashcards

What is the vulva?
The collective term for the external female reproductive structures.
What is a secondary oocyte?
The cell released at ovulation after a primary oocyte completes meiosis I.
What is follicular atresia?
The degeneration of an ovarian follicle, which can occur at any developmental stage.
What characterizes the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle?
After ovulation, progesterone supports the endometrium and promotes glandular secretions.
What is perimenopause?
The transition when menstrual cycles become irregular but have not stopped completely.

Quiz questions

  1. When does a human secondary oocyte complete meiosis II?Answer: Only after a sperm penetrates it.
  2. What does very high estrogen from the dominant follicle trigger near ovulation?Answer: Positive feedback that produces an LH surge.
  3. How do combined hormonal birth-control pills usually prevent ovulation?Answer: They suppress FSH and LH, preventing follicle maturation and the LH surge.
  4. How can high-risk HPV contribute to cervical cancer?Answer: Viral proteins can impair p53, weakening cell-cycle safeguards.
  5. Which tissue largely determines breast size?Answer: Adipose tissue.

Based on Anatomy and Physiology 2e by J. Gordon Betts, Kelly A. Young, James A. Wise, Eddie Johnson, Brandon Poe, Dean H. Kruse, Oksana Korol, Jody E. Johnson, Mark Womble, Peter DeSaix (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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