Explain the Female Reproductive System?

The female reproductive system consists of the primary sex organs, the ovaries, and the accessory organs necessary to effect fertilization and to protect, nourish, and develop the embryo. Typically, females have two ovaries, lying adjacent to a duct called the Fallopian tube. The funnel-shaped end of the Fallopian tube, or oviduct, is called the infundibulum and captures mature eggs that are released by the ovary during ovulation. Fimbriae projections, or extensions, help to collect the eggs released by the ovary. The oviducts are lined with cilia that sweep the egg further down in the oviduct, where fertilization can take place.

The fertilized egg, or zygote, migrates down through the oviducts into the pear-shaped uterus, or womb, where it embeds itself into the inner lining of the uterine wall. The uterus has two layers: an inner endometrium that contains many blood vessels and glands, and an outer muscular wall that contracts to expell the fetus during childbirth. At the lower end of the uterus is a ring of connective tissue called the cervix. The cervix opens into the vagina, a tube that leads to the outside of the body. The vagina is the receptacle for the penis during intercourse and also serves as the birth canal.

The external genitalia include the inner and outer labia, the vestibule, the hymen, and the clitoris. The hymen is a membrane that covers the vaginal orifice. The extent of coverage by the hymenal membrane varies from woman to woman. The clitoris is similar to the male glans, and it contains many nerve endings. As such it is the part of the female genitalia most responsive to sexual stimulation. Sexual excitement in the female brings about similar changes as in the male: the clitoris and labia become engorged with blood and sensitive to stimulation. During the stage called orgasm, the vagina and uterus contract rhythmically.