Vagina Day Female Reproduction

Puberty At 8: Pituitary gland Increases production of FSH Breast Development Hair Development Underarms On legs Pubic region Menstrual cycle Irregular to begin After 2 years, becomes regular (every 28 days) At 8: Pituitary gland Increases production of FSH Follicle Stimulating Hormone

External Reproductive Organs Called the Vulva Mons veneris – fatty tissue covering front of pubic bone Labia majora – heavy folds of skin that surround the opening of vagina

Labia minora- smaller folds of skin within the labia majora Clitoris – highly sensitive structure located above the opening of urethra

Internal Reproductive Organs Ovaries (2) – release estrogen and progesterone and mature egg cells. Fallopian tubes (2) – oviducts that carry eggs. Where fertilization occurs.

Uterus – muscular pear shaped organ, where fertilized egg grows into a baby. Cervix – base of the uterus. Vagina – birth canal. Also where sperm enter.

Menstrual Cycle A monthly series of changes that involve ovulation, changes in the uterine lining, and menstruation. Characteristics: Begins when egg matures. At the same time the Lining of the uterus (endometrium) thickens. Menstruation - discharge of blood and tissue if trhe egg is not fertilized.

Stages of the cycle Days 1 – 5 Menstrual flow leaves body. New ovum maturing in ovary Days 6 – 12 Endometrium thickens. Days 13 – 14 Ovulation .

Days 15 – 20 The corpus luteum is formed (temporary gland that secretes progesterone) from the burst follicle. Days 21-28 The corpus luteum disintegrates if unfertilized. No more progesterone is secreted.