# Female reproductive system

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This article is about the human female reproductive system. For the human male reproductive system, see [male reproductive system](/source/Male_reproductive_system). For the female reproductive systems of other organisms, see [reproductive system](/source/Reproductive_system).

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Reproductive system of female humans

Female reproductive system (human) Pictorial illustration of the female reproductive system and nearby organs Details Identifiers Latin systema genitale femininum MeSH D005836 TA98 A09.1.00.001 TA2 3469 FMA 45663 Anatomical terminology [edit on Wikidata]

 1. **[Vulva](/source/Vulva)**: 2. [Labia majora](/source/Labia_majora); 3. [Labia minora](/source/Labia_minora); 4. [Vestibule](/source/Vulval_vestibule); 5. **[Clitoris](/source/Clitoris)**: (with 6. Glans and 7. Body). 8. [Bulb of vestibule](/source/Bulb_of_vestibule)
 9. **[Vagina](/source/Vagina)**: 10. [Hymen](/source/Hymen); 11. Lumen; 12. Wall; 13. [Fornix (lateral)](/source/Vaginal_fornix)
 14. **[Uterus](/source/Uterus)**: **Parts**: 15. [Cervix](/source/Cervix); 16. [Body](/source/Body_of_the_uterus) and 17. [Fundus](/source/Fundus_uteri). 18. Orifices: external and internal; 19. [Cervical canal](/source/Cervical_canal); 20. [Uterine cavity](/source/Uterine_cavity); **Layers**: 21. [Endometrium](/source/Endometrium); 22. [Myometrium](/source/Myometrium) and 23. [Perimetrium](/source/Perimetrium)
 24. **[Fallopian tube](/source/Fallopian_tube)**:    25. [Isthmus](/source/Isthmus_of_Fallopian_tube); 26. [Ampulla](/source/Ampulla_of_Fallopian_tube); 27. [Infundibulum](/source/Infundibulum_of_uterine_tube); 28. [Fimbriae](/source/Fimbriae_of_uterine_tube) (with 29. Fimbria ovarica)
 30. **[Ovary](/source/Ovary)**
 31. **Visceral pelvic [peritoneum](/source/Peritoneum)**: 32. [Broad ligament](/source/Broad_ligament_of_the_uterus) (with 33. [Mesosalpinx](/source/Mesosalpinx); 34. [Mesovarium](/source/Mesovarium) and 35. [Mesometrium](/source/Mesometrium))
 **Ligaments**: 36. [Round](/source/Round_ligament_of_uterus); 37. [Ovarian](/source/Ovarian_ligament); 38. [Suspensory of ovary](/source/Suspensory_ligament_of_ovary)
 **Blood vessels**: 39. [Ovarian artery](/source/Ovarian_artery) and [vein](/source/Ovarian_vein); 40. [Uterine artery](/source/Uterine_artery) and [veins](/source/Uterine_veins); 41. [Vaginal artery](/source/Vaginal_artery) and [veins](/source/Vaginal_venous_plexus)
 **Other**: 42. [Ureter](/source/Ureter); 43. [Pelvic floor](/source/Pelvic_floor) ([Levator ani](/source/Levator_ani)); 44. [Femoral head](/source/Femoral_head);  45. [Hip bone](/source/Hip_bone);  46. [Internal iliac vessels](/source/Internal_iliac_artery) (anterior branches); 47. [External iliac vessels](/source/External_iliac_artery); 48. [Abdominal cavity](/source/Abdominal_cavity)

The human **female reproductive system** is made up of the internal and external [sex organs](/source/Sex_organ) that function in the [reproduction](/source/Human_reproduction) of new [offspring](/source/Offspring). The reproductive system is immature at birth and develops at [puberty](/source/Puberty) to be able to release matured [ova](/source/Ova) from the [ovaries](/source/Ovary), facilitate their [fertilization](/source/Human_fertilization) with [sperm](/source/Sperm), and create a protective environment for the developing [fetus](/source/Fetus) during [pregnancy](/source/Pregnancy). The **female reproductive tract** is made of several connected internal organs—the [vagina](/source/Vagina), [uterus](/source/Uterus), and [fallopian tubes](/source/Fallopian_tube)—and is prone to infections.[1] The tract is protected by a fold called the [labia majora](/source/Labia_majora) and a flap called the [labia minora](/source/Labia_minora). The vagina allows for [sexual intercourse](/source/Sexual_intercourse) and [childbirth](/source/Childbirth), and is connected to the uterus at the [cervix](/source/Cervix). The uterus (or *womb*) accommodates the [embryo](/source/Embryo) by developing the [uterine lining](/source/Uterine_lining). The small external part of the [clitoris](/source/Clitoris), just below the [mons Venus](/source/Mons_Venus), helps with [arousal](/source/Arousal) and [orgasm](/source/Orgasm).

The uterus also produces secretions which help the transit of [sperm](/source/Sperm) to the fallopian tubes, where one of them can fertilize the ovum. During the [menstrual cycle](/source/Menstrual_cycle), an ovary releases an ovum, which transits through the fallopian tube and into the uterus. If the egg cell meets with sperm on its way to the uterus, a single sperm cell can enter and merge with it, creating a [zygote](/source/Zygote). If no fertilization occurs, the uterine lining has to be shed as blood, mucus, and tissue, a process known as [menstruation](/source/Menstruation).

Fertilization usually occurs within a fallopian tube and marks the beginning of [embryogenesis](/source/Human_embryogenesis). The zygote will then [divide](/source/Mitosis) over enough generations of cells to form a [blastocyst](/source/Blastocyst), which [implants](/source/Implantation_(embryo)) itself in the wall of the uterus. This begins the period of [gestation](/source/Gestation) and the embryo will continue to [develop](/source/Prenatal_development) until [full-term](/source/Pregnancy#Childbirth_maturity_stages). When the [fetus has developed enough to survive outside the uterus](/source/Fetal_viability), the cervix dilates, and [contractions of the uterus propel it through the birth canal](/source/Childbirth) (the vagina), where it becomes a [newborn](/source/Newborn). The [breasts](/source/Breasts) are part of the reproductive system [2] although the modern advent of [infant formula](/source/Infant_formula) has made the [mammary glands](/source/Mammary_gland) less essential to nourishing infants.

Later in life, a woman goes through [menopause](/source/Menopause) and menstruation halts. The ovaries stop releasing eggs and the uterus stops preparing for pregnancy.

The external sex organs are also known as the *genitals*, and these are the organs of the [vulva](/source/Vulva), including the [labia](/source/Labia), [clitoris](/source/Clitoris), and [vestibule](/source/Vulval_vestibule).[3] The corresponding equivalent among males is the [male reproductive system](/source/Human_male_reproductive_system).

## External genitalia

### Vulva

Main article: [Vulva](/source/Vulva)

Labeled anatomy of the human vulva and nearby structures

The vulva consists of external parts and tissues and includes the following:[4]

- [Clitoris](/source/Clitoris): an organ located at the top of the vulva. It consists of the [body](/source/Clitoris#Body) and its pea-shaped [glans](/source/Clitoris#Glans) that is protected by the [clitoral hood](/source/Clitoral_hood). The [corpora cavernosa](/source/Corpus_cavernosum_of_clitoris) are tissues of the clitoris that aid in [erection](/source/Clitoral_erection) by filling with blood during [sexual arousal](/source/Sexual_arousal).

- [Labia](/source/Labia): two types of vertical folds of skin called the [labia majora](/source/Labia_majora) (thick and large outer folds that protect other parts of the vulva) and the [labia minora](/source/Labia_minora) (thin and small inner folds that protect the vestibule from dryness, infections and irritation).

- [Mons pubis](/source/Mons_pubis): a mass of [fatty tissue](/source/Adipose_tissue) where the [pubic hair](/source/Pubic_hair) grows.

- [Vulval vestibule](/source/Vulval_vestibule): an almond-shaped area between the labia minora that contains the openings.

- [Urinary meatus](/source/Urinary_meatus): the opening where [urine](/source/Urine) exits the [urethra](/source/Urethra).

- [Vaginal opening](/source/Human_vagina#Vaginal_opening_and_hymen): entrance to the vagina.

- [Hymen](/source/Hymen): [connective tissue](/source/Connective_tissue) that covers the vaginal opening.

- Vestibular gland openings: two pairs of openings in the vulval vestibule for the [Bartholin's](/source/Bartholin's_gland) and [Skene's glands](/source/Skene's_gland).

## Internal genitalia

Labeled illustration of the human internal female genitalia (sagittal view)

Schematic drawing of reproductive organs (frontal view)

### Vagina

Main article: [Vagina](/source/Vagina)

The vagina is a fibromuscular (made up of fibrous and muscular tissue) [canal](/source/Human_vagina#Structure) leading from the outside of the body to the cervix of the uterus. It is also referred to as the birth canal in the context of [pregnancy](/source/Pregnancy). During [sexual intercourse](/source/Sexual_intercourse), [semen](/source/Semen) containing [spermatozoa](/source/Spermatozoon) is [ejaculated](/source/Ejaculation) from the [penis](/source/Human_penis) into the vagina, potentially enabling [fertilization](/source/Human_fertilization) of the [egg cell](/source/Egg_cell) (ovum).

### Cervix

Main article: [Cervix](/source/Cervix)

The cervix is the neck of the uterus, the lower, narrow portion where it joins with the upper part of the vagina. It is [cylindrical](/source/Cylindrical) or [conical](/source/Cone_(geometry)) in shape and protrudes through the upper anterior vaginal wall. Approximately half its length is visible, the remainder lies above the vagina beyond view. The vagina has a thick layer outside and it is the opening through which the fetus emerges during delivery.

### Uterus

Main article: [Uterus](/source/Uterus)

The uterus or womb is the major female reproductive [organ](/source/Organ_(anatomy)). The uterus provides mechanical protection, nutritional support, and waste removal for the developing embryo (weeks 1 to 8) and fetus (from week 9 until the delivery). In addition, contractions in the muscular wall of the uterus are important in pushing out the fetus at the time of birth.

The uterus contains three suspensory ligaments that help stabilize the position of the uterus and limits its range of movement. The [uterosacral ligaments](/source/Uterosacral_ligament) keep the body from moving inferiorly and anteriorly. The [round ligaments](/source/Round_ligament_of_uterus) restrict posterior movement of the uterus. The [cardinal ligaments](/source/Cardinal_ligament) also prevent the inferior movement of the uterus.

The uterus is a pear-shaped [muscular](/source/Muscle) organ. Its major function is to accept a fertilized ovum, which becomes implanted into the [endometrium](/source/Endometrium), and derives nourishment from blood vessels, which develop exclusively for this purpose. The fertilized ovum becomes an [embryo](/source/Embryo), develops into a [fetus](/source/Fetus) and gestates until [childbirth](/source/Childbirth). If the egg does not embed in the wall of the uterus, the female begins [menstruation](/source/Menstruation).[5]

### Fallopian tubes

Main article: [Fallopian tube](/source/Fallopian_tube)

The fallopian tubes are two tubes leading from the ovaries into the uterus. On maturity of an ovum, the follicle and the ovary's wall rupture, allowing the ovum to escape and enter the fallopian tube. There it travels toward the uterus, pushed along by movements of [cilia](/source/Cilia) on the inner lining of the tubes. This trip takes hours or days. If the ovum is fertilized while in the fallopian tube, then it normally implants in the [endometrium](/source/Endometrium) when it reaches the uterus, which signals the beginning of [pregnancy](/source/Pregnancy).[6]

### Ovaries

Main article: [Ovary](/source/Ovary)

The ovaries are small, paired [gonads](/source/Gonad) located near the lateral walls of the pelvic cavity. These organs are responsible for the production of the [egg cells](/source/Egg_cell) (ova) and the secretion of hormones. The process by which the egg cell (ovum) is released is called [ovulation](/source/Ovulation). The speed of ovulation is [periodic](/source/Frequency) and impacts the length of a [menstrual cycle](/source/Menstrual_cycle).

After ovulation, the egg cell travels through the fallopian tube toward the uterus. If fertilization is going to occur, it often happens in the fallopian tube; the fertilized egg can then implant in the uterus's lining.[7][8] During fertilization the egg cell plays a role; it releases certain molecules that are essential to guiding the sperm and allows the surface of the egg to attach to the sperm's surface. The egg can then absorb the sperm and fertilization can begin.[9]

### Vestibular glands

Main articles: [Bartholin's gland](/source/Bartholin's_gland) and [Skene's gland](/source/Skene's_gland)

The vestibular glands, also known as the female accessory glands, are the Bartholin's glands, which produce a [mucous](/source/Mucus) fluid for [vaginal lubrication](/source/Vaginal_lubrication), and the Skene's glands for the [ejaculation](/source/Female_ejaculation) of fluid as well as for lubricating the meatus.

## Function

The female reproductive system functions to [produce](/source/Human_reproduction) [offspring](/source/Offspring).

In the absence of fertilization, the ovum will eventually traverse the entire reproductive tract from the fallopian tube until exiting the vagina through [menstruation](/source/Menstruation).

The reproductive tract can be used for various [transluminal procedures](/source/Transluminal_procedure) such as [fertiloscopy](/source/Fertiloscopy), [intrauterine insemination](/source/Intrauterine_insemination), and transluminal [sterilization](/source/Sterilization_(medicine)).

[Oocytes](/source/Oocyte) residing in the [primordial follicle](/source/Folliculogenesis) of the ovary are in a non-growing [prophase](/source/Prophase) arrested state, but are capable of highly efficient [homologous recombinational](/source/Homologous_recombination) repair of [DNA damages](/source/DNA_damage_(naturally_occurring)) including double-strand breaks.[10] This capability allows [genome](/source/Genome) integrity to be maintained and offspring health to be protected.[10]

## Development

Main article: [Development of the reproductive system](/source/Development_of_the_reproductive_system)

Chromosome characteristics determine the genetic sex of a fetus at [conception](/source/Human_fertilization). This is specifically based on the 23rd pair of chromosomes that is inherited. Since the mother's egg contains an X chromosome and the father's sperm contains either an X or Y [chromosome](/source/Chromosome), it is the male who determines the fetus' sex. If the fetus inherits the X chromosome from the father, the fetus will be a female. In this case, [testosterone](/source/Testosterone) is not made and the [Wolffian duct](/source/Wolffian_duct) will degrade thus, the [Müllerian duct](/source/M%C3%BCllerian_duct) will develop into female sex organs. The [clitoris](/source/Clitoris) is the remnants of the Wolffian duct. On the other hand, if the fetus inherits the Y chromosome from the father, the fetus will be a male. The presence of testosterone will stimulate the Wolffian duct, which will bring about the development of the male sex organs and the Müllerian duct will degrade.[11]

## Clinical significance

Further information: [Vulva disease](/source/Vulva_disease)

### Vaginitis

[Vaginitis](/source/Vaginitis) is inflammation of the vagina and largely caused by an infection. It is the most common gynaecological condition presented.[12] It is difficult to determine any one organism most responsible for vaginitis because it varies from range of age, sexual activity, and method of microbial identification. Vaginitis is not necessarily caused by a [sexually transmitted infection](/source/Sexually_transmitted_infection) as there are many infectious agents that make use of the close proximity to mucous membranes and secretions. Vaginitis is usually diagnosed based on the presence of vaginal discharge, which can have a certain color, odor, or quality.[13]

### Bacterial vaginosis

Main article: [Bacterial vaginosis](/source/Bacterial_vaginosis)

This is a vaginal infection in women. It differs from vaginitis in that there is no inflammation. Bacterial vaginosis is polymicrobial, consisting of many [bacteria](/source/Bacteria) species. The diagnosis for bacterial vaginosis is made if three of the following four criteria are present: (1) Homogenous, thin discharge, (2) a [pH](/source/PH) of 4.5 in the vagina, (3) [epithelial cells](/source/Epithelial_cells) in the vagina with bacteria attached to them, or (4) a fishy odor. It has been associated with an increased risk of other genital tract infections such as [endometritis](/source/Endometritis).[13]

### Yeast infection

Main article: [Vaginal yeast infection](/source/Vaginal_yeast_infection)

This is a common cause of vaginal irritation and according to the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](/source/Centers_for_Disease_Control_and_Prevention) at least 75% of adult women have experienced one at least once in their lifetime. Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of fungus in the vagina known as [Candida](/source/Candidiasis). Yeast infections are usually caused by an imbalance of the pH in the vagina, which is usually acidic. Other factors such as pregnancy, diabetes, weakened immune systems, tight fitting clothing, or [douching](/source/Douching) can also be a cause. Symptoms of yeast infections include itching, burning, irritation, and a white cottage-cheese-like discharge from the vagina. Women have also reported that they experience painful intercourse and urination as well. Taking a sample of the vaginal secretions and placing them under a microscope for evidence of yeast can diagnose a yeast infection. Treatment varies from creams that can be applied in or around the vaginal area to oral tablets that stop the growth of fungus.[13]

### Genital mutilation

Main article: [Female genital mutilation](/source/Female_genital_mutilation)

There are many practices of mutilating female genitalia in different cultures. The most common two types of genital mutilation practiced are [clitoridectomy](/source/Clitoridectomy), the circumcision of the clitoris and the excision of the [clitoral prepuce](/source/Clitoral_hood). They can all involve a range of adverse health consequences such as [bleeding](/source/Bleeding), irreparable tissue damage, and [sepsis](/source/Sepsis), which can sometimes prove fatal.

### Genital surgery

Main article: [Genitoplasty](/source/Genitoplasty)

[Genitoplasty](/source/Genitoplasty) refers to surgery that is carried out to repair damaged sex organs particularly following cancer and its treatment. There are also [elective surgical](/source/Elective_surgery) procedures, which change the appearance of the external genitals.

### Birth control

Main article: [Birth control](/source/Birth_control)

There are many types of birth control available to females. Birth control can be hormonal or physical in nature. Oral contraception can assist with management of various medical conditions, such as menorrhagia.[14] However, oral contraceptives can have a variety of side effects, including depression.[15]

## Reproductive rights

Main article: [Reproductive rights](/source/Reproductive_rights)

The [International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics](/source/International_Federation_of_Gynaecology_and_Obstetrics) was founded in 1954 to promote the well-being of women particularly in raising the standards of gynaecological practice and care. As of 2010, there were 124 countries involved.

[Reproductive rights](/source/Reproductive_rights) are legal rights related to reproduction and [reproductive health](/source/Reproductive_health). Women have the right to control matters involving their sexuality including their sexual and reproductive health. Violation of these rights include [forced pregnancy](/source/Forced_pregnancy), [forced sterilization](/source/Forced_sterilization), [forced abortion](/source/Forced_abortion) and [genital mutilation](/source/Female_genital_mutilation). Female genital mutilation is the complete or partial removal of a female's external [genitals](/source/Genitals).

## History

It is claimed in the [Hippocratic](/source/Hippocrates) writings that both males and females contribute their seed to conception; otherwise, children would not resemble either or both of their parents. Four hundred years later, [Galen](/source/Galen) identified the source of 'female semen' as the ovaries in female reproductive organs.[16]

The [evolutionary history](/source/Evolutionary_biology) of the female reproductive system remains poorly understood because it has been less studied than the male reproductive system.[17][18][19]

## See also

- [Conception](/source/Human_fertilization)

- [Development of the reproductive system](/source/Development_of_the_reproductive_system)

- [Evolution of sexual reproduction](/source/Evolution_of_sexual_reproduction)

- [Female infertility](/source/Female_infertility)

- [Oogenesis](/source/Oogenesis)

- [Human sexuality § Female anatomy and reproductive system](/source/Human_sexuality#Female_anatomy_and_reproductive_system)

- [Orgasm § Females](/source/Orgasm#Females)

## References

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1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-Stringer2020_10-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-Stringer2020_10-1) Stringer JM, Winship A, Zerafa N, Wakefield M, Hutt K (May 2020). ["Oocytes can efficiently repair DNA double-strand breaks to restore genetic integrity and protect offspring health"](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7260990). *Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A*. **117** (21): 11513–11522. [Bibcode](/source/Bibcode_(identifier)):[2020PNAS..11711513S](https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2020PNAS..11711513S). [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1073/pnas.2001124117](https://doi.org/10.1073%2Fpnas.2001124117). [PMC](/source/PMC_(identifier)) [7260990](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7260990). [PMID](/source/PMID_(identifier)) [32381741](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32381741).

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## External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to [Human female reproductive system](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Human_female_reproductive_system).

The Wikibook *[Human Physiology](https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Human_Physiology)* has a page on the topic of: ***[The female reproductive system](https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Human_Physiology/The_female_reproductive_system)***

- [Female reproductive system](http://www.the-human-body.net/female-reproductive-system.html) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190527021058/http://www.the-human-body.net/female-reproductive-system.html) 2019-05-27 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine)

- [Interactive diagram of female reproductive system](https://web.archive.org/web/20180328045745/http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/En/HowTheBodyWorks/SexDevelopmentAnOverview/Pages/FemaleGenitalAnatomy.aspx)

v t e Women's health Reproductive health Reproductive tract External female genitalia (vulva) Clitoris Clitoral hood Labia minora Labia majora Vagina Cervix Uterus Fallopian tube Ovary Reproductive system disease Maternal health Pregnancy Unintended pregnancy Gravidity and parity Obstetrics Antenatal care Adolescent pregnancy Complications of pregnancy Hyperemesis gravidarum Ectopic pregnancy Miscarriage Obstetrical bleeding Gestational diabetes Hypertension Preeclampsia Eclampsia Childbirth Midwifery Preterm birth Multiple births Oxytocin Obstructed labor Cesarian section Retained placenta Obstetrical fistulae Vesicovaginal fistula Rectovaginal fistula Episiotomy Husband stitch Postpartum care Postpartum confinement Maternal deaths Perinatal mortality Stillbirths Abortion Mother-to-child transmission Sterilization Compulsory sterilization Breastfeeding and mental health Reproductive life plan Infertility Childlessness Assisted reproductive technology In vitro fertilization Parenting Adoption Fostering Contraception and family planning Intrauterine devices Oral contraceptives Condoms Male contraceptive Contraceptive prevalence Contraceptive security Planned Parenthood Fertility awareness Menstruation Culture and menstruation Feminine hygiene Menarche Menstrual cycle Menstrual aids Cloth menstrual pad Menstrual cup Tampon Sanitary pad Dysmenorrhea Menorrhagia Amenorrhoea Menopause Hormone replacement therapy Sexual health Sexually transmitted infections Safe sex HIV Human papilloma virus HPV vaccine Pelvic inflammatory disease Female genital mutilation Clitoridectomy Infibulation Breast binding Breast health Breast ironing Child marriage Dyspareunia Forced marriage Gynaecological disorders Vaginitis Leblouh Polygamy Sexual intercourse Orgasm Puberty Sex differences Sex education Non-reproductive health Violence against women Abuse during childbirth Domestic violence Pregnancy Intimate partner violence Misogyny Sexual harassment Sexual assault Rape Femicide Gender discrimination Non-communicable diseases Cancer Lung cancer Breast cancer Uterine cancer Endometrial cancer Cervical cancer Papanicolaou test Ovarian cancer Cardiovascular disease Dementia Alzheimer's disease Bone health Osteoporosis Hip fracture Anaemia Mental health Anxiety Depression Major depressive disorder Urinary tract Urethra Urinary tract infection Urinary incontinence Sociocultural factors Poverty Disadvantaged Gender equality Healthcare inequality Gender disparities in health Social determinants of health Reproductive justice Women's empowerment Politics, research and advocacy United Nations The Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women Declaration on the elimination of violence against women International Day of the Girl Child Commission on the Status of Women UN Women United States Office of Research on Women's Health Women's Health Initiative International Center for Research on Women Nurses' Health Study Black Women's Health Study Cartwright Inquiry Society for Women's Health Research Women's health by country China Ethiopia India Family planning Russia Birth control in the United States Category Commons WikiProject

v t e Human systems and organs Musculoskeletal system Skeletal system Bone Carpus Collar bone (clavicle) Thigh bone (femur) Fibula Humerus Mandible Metacarpus Metatarsus Ossicles Patella Phalanges Radius Skull Tarsus Tibia Ulna Rib Vertebra Pelvis Sternum Cartilage Joints Fibrous joint Cartilaginous joint Synovial joint Muscular system Muscle Tendon Diaphragm Circulatory system Cardiovascular system peripheral Artery Vein Lymphatic vessel Heart Lymphatic system primary Bone marrow Thymus secondary Spleen Lymph node CNS equivalent Glymphatic system Nervous system Brain Spinal cord Nerve Sensory system Ear Eye Somatic system Tissue Integumentary system Skin Subcutaneous tissue Breast Mammary gland Haematopoietic and immune systems Myeloid Myeloid immune system Lymphoid Lymphoid immune system Respiratory system Upper Nose Nasopharynx Larynx Lower Trachea Bronchus Lung Digestive system Mouth Salivary gland Tongue Lip Tooth upper GI Oropharynx Laryngopharynx Esophagus Stomach lower GI Small intestine Appendix Colon Rectum Anus accessory Liver Biliary tract Pancreas Urinary system Genitourinary system Kidney Ureter Bladder Urethra Reproductive system Male Scrotum Penis Prostate Testicle Seminal vesicle Female Uterus Vagina Vulva Ovary Placenta Endocrine system Pituitary Pineal Thyroid Parathyroid Adrenal Islets of Langerhans

v t e Female reproductive system Internal Adnexa Ovaries Follicles Corpus Hemorrhagicum Luteum Albicans Thecae Externa Interna Follicular antrum Follicular fluid Corona radiata Zona pellucida Membrana granulosa Perivitelline space Other Germinal epithelium Tunica albuginea Cortex Cumulus oophorus Stroma Medulla Retia ovarii Oogenesis Oogonium Oocytogenesis Oocyte Ootidogenesis Ootid Ovum Fallopian tubes Isthmi Ampullae Infundibula Fimbriae Ostia Intramural segments Ligaments Ovarian ligaments Suspensory ligaments Pampiniform plexus Wolffian vestiges Gartner's ducts Epoophora Vesicular appendages Paroophora Uterus Regions Body Cavity Fundus Isthmus Cervix Canal Internal os External os Supravaginal portion Horns Layers Wall Endometrium Myometrium Perimetrium Parametrium Epithelium Ligaments Round ligaments Broad ligaments Cardinal ligaments Uterosacral ligaments Pubocervical ligaments General Glands Urogenital diaphragm Vestibular glands Bartholin's glands Skene's glands Vagina Canal Rugae Walls Fornices Support structures Epithelium External Vulva Labia Mons pubis Labia majora Pudendal cleft Labiocrural folds Anterior commissure Posterior commissure Dartos muliebris Posterior labial nerves Anterior labial nerves Perineal nerve Labia minora Frenulum Posterior labial arteries Posterior labial veins Interlabial sulci Clitoris Root Crura Bulbs Suspensory ligament Fundiform ligament Body Corpora cavernosa Trabeculae of corpora cavernosa Infra-corporeal residual spongy part Angle Commissure of bulbs Pars intermedia Glans Corona Frenulum Arteries Dorsal arteries Deep arteries Arteries of bulbs Internal pudendal artery Veins Superficial dorsal veins Deep dorsal veins Veins of bulbs Internal pudendal veins Nerves Dorsal nerves Pudendal nerve Clitoral hood Fascia Tunica albuginea Septum Vestibule Fossa Vaginal orifice Hymen Vestibular gland openings Urethra External urethral orifice Blood supply Arteries Ovarian arteries Uterine artery Arcuate artery Vaginal artery Spiral arteries Veins Ovarian veins Uterine vein Uterine venous plexuses Vaginal venous plexus Other G-spot Urethral sponge Perineal sponge Rectouterine pouch Vesicouterine pouch Uterotubal junctions

v t e Menstrual cycle Events and phases Menstruation Follicular phase Ovulation Luteal phase Life stages Menarche Menopause Tracking Signs Basal body temperature Cervical mucus Mittelschmerz Systems Fertility awareness Calendar-based methods Billings Ovulation Method Creighton Model Suppression Extended cycle combined hormonal contraceptive Lactational amenorrhea Disorders Amenorrhea Anovulation Cryptomenorrhea Dysmenorrhea Hypomenorrhea Irregular menstruation Menometrorrhagia Menorrhagia (hypermenorrhea) Metropathia haemorrhagica Metrorrhagia Oligoamenorrhea Oligomenorrhea Oligoovulation Polymenorrhagia Polymenorrhea (epimenorrhea) Related events Folliculogenesis Menstrual synchrony Premenstrual water retention Sexual activity Mental health Premenstrual syndrome Premenstrual dysphoric disorder Menstrual psychosis Hygiene Menstrual hygiene management Feminine hygiene Menstrual pad Cloth menstrual pad Tampon Menstrual cup Menstrual pad Period underwear Menstrual Hygiene Day In culture and religion Chhaupadi In Islam Menstrual leave Menstrual stigma Menstrual suppression Menstrual taboo Menstruation celebration Menstruation hut Niddah Period poverty Sustainable menstruation Tampon tax

Authority control databases International FAST National Czech Republic 2 Spain Israel Other Terminologia Anatomica

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Female reproductive system](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Female_reproductive_system) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Female_reproductive_system?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.
