The human female reproductive system consists of several important parts:
i. Internal Genitalia:
a. Ovary:
- The primary female sex organ, solid, oval, or almond-shaped, located near the kidneys.
- Measures 3 cm in length, 1.5 cm in breadth, and 1 cm in thickness.
- Positioned in the upper lateral part of the pelvis, held in place by ligaments.
- Main functions: Production of eggs (ovum) and female reproductive hormones (estrogen, progesterone, relaxin, activin, and inhibin).
b. Oviduct/Fallopian Tube/Uterine Tube:
- Pair of muscular ducts horizontally over the peritoneal cavity.
- Length of each tube is 10 to 12 cm, internally lined with ciliated epithelium.
- Divided into Infundibulum, Ampulla (site of fertilization), and Isthmus/Cornua.
- Functions: Transport released eggs from the ovary to the uterus, with fertilization occurring in the ampulla.
c. Uterus:
- Hollow, muscular, pear-shaped organ located above and behind the urinary bladder.
- Dimensions approximately 7.5 cm long, 5 cm broad, and 2.5 cm thick.
- Three layers: Perimetrium (outermost), Myometrium (middle thick muscular layer), Endometrium (innermost mucosal membrane).
- Divided into Fundus, Body, and Cervix.
- Functions: Receives the ovum, provides a site for implantation, gestation, and parturition, and forms the placenta for fetal development.
d. Vagina:
- Tubular, female copulatory organ measuring 7 to 9 cm in length.
- Positioned between the cervix and the vestibule.
- Wall consists of an inner mucosal lining, a middle muscular layer, and an outer adventitia layer.
- Functions: Passage for menstrual flow and birth canal during parturition.
ii. External Genitalia (Vulva):
a. Vestibule: Median vertical depression enclosing the urethral and vaginal openings.
b. Labia Minora: Thin folds inner to the labia majora, converging into a hood-like covering around the clitoris.
c. Clitoris: Small conical and sensitive projection with erectile tissue similar to the penis.
d. Labia Majora: Fleshy folds of skin homologous to the scrotum, surrounding and protecting other external genitalia parts.
e. Mons Pubis: Fleshy elevation above the labia majora showing pubic hair.
iii. Accessory Glands:
a. Vestibular Glands/Bartholin’s Glands: A pair of glands homologous to the male Bulbourethral or Cowper’s glands, releasing lubricating fluid.
b. Mammary Glands: Accessory organs for milk production and release after childbirth, located in the anterior thorax.
The female reproductive system undergoes intricate changes, supporting the processes of egg production, hormonal regulation, and the ability to nurture and nourish a developing fetus.