Female Reproduction

Ova- Female reproduction cells stored in the ovaries

Estrogen (Hormone)- Organs mature, pubic and armpit hair, regulates release of eggs

Menstruation- The process of shredding the lining of the uterus

Menstrual Period- The time from the beginning of menstruation period to the onset of the next. Usually 28 days

Ovulation- Ovaries begin the process of releasing one mature ovum each month

Zygote- The cell that results from the union of sperm and ovum

Fetus- Last 7 months of development

Placenta- Organ that nourishes fetus

Internal Organs

Vagina- Very muscular/elastic tube-like passageway that extends from the uterus to the outside of the body.

Ovaries- Female sex glandsFunction: House the ova and produce female hormones estrogen and progesterone

Cervix- Neck of uterus dilates during birth to allow passage of baby

Uterus- Strong elastic muscle about the size of a fistFunction: Hold and nourish developing embryo and fetus

Fallopian Tubes- Located on each side of the uterus, and are lined w/ cilia (tiny hair-like projections) where fertilization usually occurs

External Organs

Mons Pubis- Rounded fatty pad of tissue, covered w/ pubic hair

Labia Majora- Outer fold of tissue on either side of vaginal opening

Labia Minora- Inner fold of tissue that extends forward forming a hood-like covering over the clitoris

Clitoris- Small knob of tissue in front of the vaginal opening Function: sexual arousal

Female Concerns

Infertility- Inability for a female to become pregnant

Problems that can cause infertility:Blocked fallopian tubes- Causes are pelvic inflammatory disease or abdominal surgery. ***Leading cause of infertility***

Pelvic InflammatoryDisease- Infection of the fallopian tubes

Endometriosis- Uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, often appearing on the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the abdominal cavity

Problems related to menstruation:Menstrual cramps- Cramps in abdominal occur during menstrual period

Concerns continued…

Types of cramps: Dysmenorrhea- Painful contractions lasting 1-2 days

Amenorrhea- Lack of menstruation by age of 16 or stopping of cycle for 3 or more months

(PMS) Premenstrual Syndrome- Symptoms are: nervous tension, anxiety, irritability, bloating, wt gain, depression, mood swings

(TSS) Toxic Shock Syndrome- Caused by using tampons during period~Bacteria produce a toxic poison that affects liver and the immune system

Symptoms: vomiting, dizziness, rash, kidney and liver damage, diarrhea

Yeast Infection- Fungus, thick white discharge, foul odor, and severe itching

Sterility- Untreated STD, blockage of tubes, fertilization can not occur

Concerns continued…

Breast Cancer- Change in breast or nipple, lump or swelling in breast or armpit

~4000 women and 400 men will die this yr of breast cancer

Mammogram- Test for breast cancer

Cervical Cancer- Causes can include many sexual partners, early sexual activity, effects women between 20-30. Caused by HPV

Pap Smear- Test to detect for abnormal cells in cervix

Trichomoniasis- A vaginal infection that can lead to urethra and bladder infections

Vaginitis- Most common vaginal infection in women of childbearing ageSymptoms: Discharge, odor, itching, pain

Ovarian Cysts- Fluid-filled sacs on the ovary. Small non-cancerous, usually disappear on their own. Larger cysts may need surgery

Preventing Problems

1. Prevent STDs 2. Prevent vaginal irritation: redness, itching, and mild pain3. Avoid wearing. tight clothing4. Relieving menstrual cramps- taking warm baths, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing caffeine and sugar intake5. Preventing infertility can be caused endometriosis and STDs