About Lesson
Describe how the various structures of the human female reproductive system are adapted to their function
Ovaries
- Have several Graafian follicles that develop and burst open to release/produce mature ova
- Secretes sex hormone (Oestrogen) which initiate/control development of secondary sexual characteristics
- Produce hormones Oestrogen and progesterone which prepare the uterus for implantation and subsequent nourishment of the embryo
Oviduct (fallopian tube)
- Are thin narrow and tubular to increase flowing speed of semen containing sperms
- Are funnel shaped on the end next to ovary which enables them to receive the ovum
- Their lining contains cilia which propel the ovum towards the uterus
- Has peristaltic muscles that enable movement of zygote/ovum to the uterus for implantation
- Is fairly long to increase surface area for fertilization
Uterus
- Is muscular for protection of developing embryo
- Has elastic wall that allows growth and development of foetus/embryo
- Has a highly vascularised endometrium that provides nutrients to developing embryo
Cervix
- Has valves that close the lower end of the uterus to ensure continued pregnancy during gestation period
- Is capable of dilating
- Has narrow entrance/neck-like entrance to uterus that enables quick swimming of sperms to uterus
- Has suction mechanism that draws up/pulls sperms into uterus
Vagina
- It is elastic and muscular to enable good accommodation or penetration of the penis thus proper deposition of sperms and for easy parturition
- Has sensitive labial walls which secrete/produce lubricating substances that ensure/enable/facilitate good coition
- Capable of considerable enlargement, due to elastic muscles, to accommodate baby during parturition
Clitoris
- Has sensitive cells for orgasm