 Three main functions  Produce egg cells  To create a new life  To give birth  Ovaries- female endocrine glands the release mature eggs  It controls sexual development and other organs in reproductive system.  Uterus- pear shaped organ which the developing baby is nourished and protected.

 It is a series of events that prepares the female reproductive system for reproduction.  Begins when a females hormone production increases and she reaches full puberty  Most last 28 days, but can vary.  First year or two the cycles are irregular

 First  Hormones cause the lining of the uterus to build up with a cushion of blood, tissue, and fluid  Second  The level of hormone estrogen reaches its highest point  Third  The egg is released  If it is not fertilized the lining of the uterus begins to break down  Fourth  Menstruation occurs  the flow from the body of blood, tissues, and fluids.  It can last from 2 to 7 days  Fifth  The cycle begins again  The lining of the uterus begins to thicken.

 Joining of sperm and egg.  The sperm enters and travels to the fallopian tubes.  When the egg and sperm unite, the egg develops a film that prevents more sperm cells from entering.  The fertilized egg travels to the uterus where it becomes implanted in the lining  Here the fertilized egg begins to grow  It is nourished and protected by the lining of the uterus.

 Yeast Infection  Females experience itching of the vagina as well as a discharge  It is brought on by hormone changes, certain medicines, and tight clothing  Cancer  Can occur in breasts, ovaries, uterus, and cervix.  Sterility  Inability to have children  Can be caused by stress, diet, and overexertion, as well as aging.

 Breast examination every month  Shower and bathe  Keep track of your menstrual cycle  Visit a gynecologist  A doctor who specializes in the female reproductive system