Female Reproductive System Aantomy.

 Anatomy of the Female Reproductive System

The female reproductive system is divided into external and internal genitalia. It also includes supporting structures and is closely associated with the urinary and digestive systems in the pelvic cavity.

 I. External Genitalia (Vulva)

Also known as the vulva, these structures are visible externally and protect internal organs.

1. Mons pubis
• Fatty tissue over the pubic bone, covered with hair after puberty.
2. Labia majora
• Thick, outer folds of skin; contain sweat and sebaceous glands.
3. Labia minora
• Thinner, inner folds of skin; rich in blood vessels and nerves.
4. Clitoris
• Erectile tissue; main organ for female sexual pleasure.
5. Vestibule
• Space between the labia minora that includes:
• Urethral opening (for urine)
• Vaginal opening
• Openings of Bartholin's glands (secrete mucus for lubrication)
6. Perineum
• Area between vaginal opening and anus; important during childbirth.

 

 II. Internal Reproductive Organs

1. Vagina

• Muscular, elastic tube (~8–10 cm long)
• Extends from the cervix to the vulva
• Functions:
• Receives penis during intercourse
• Passageway for menstrual blood and childbirth

2. Uterus

• Hollow, muscular, pear-shaped organ
• Divided into:
• Fundus – top dome
• Body – central portion
• Isthmus – narrow region
• Cervix – lower part opening into vagina
• Uterine wall layers:
• Endometrium – inner lining; sheds during menstruation
• Myometrium – thick muscular middle layer
• Perimetrium – outer serosal layer

3. Fallopian Tubes (Uterine Tubes or Oviducts)

• Paired tubes (~10 cm long) connecting ovaries to uterus
• Parts:
• Fimbriae – finger-like projections near ovary
• Infundibulum – funnel-shaped opening
• Ampulla – main site of fertilization
• Isthmus – narrow part connecting to uterus

4. Ovaries

• Paired, oval-shaped glands (~3 cm long)
• Located on either side of uterus
• Functions:
• Oogenesis – production of ova (eggs)
• Secretion of estrogen, progesterone, inhibin

 

🔹 III. Supporting Ligaments

The reproductive organs are held in place by several ligaments:

• Broad ligament – supports uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries
• Ovarian ligament – connects ovary to uterus
• Suspensory ligament – contains blood vessels; attaches ovary to pelvic wall
• Round ligament – extends from uterus to labia majora
• Uterosacral ligament – connects uterus to sacrum

 

Nerve & Blood Supply

• Arterial supply: Mainly from the internal iliac artery
• Uterine artery
• Ovarian artery (from abdominal aorta)
• Vaginal artery
• Innervation: Via pelvic plexus (autonomic) and pudendal nerve (somatic)