1. Ova- Female reproduction cells
stored in the ovaries
Estrogen (Hormone)- Organs mature, develops pubic and armpit hair, regulates release of eggs
Menstruation- The process of shedding the lining of the uterus (endometrium –uterine lining)
Occurs monthly
Ovulation- Ovaries begin the process of releasing one mature ovum each month
Zygote- The cell that results from the union of sperm and ovum
Fetus- Last 7 months of development
Placenta- Organ that nourishes fetus

2. Internal Organs
Vagina- Very muscular/elastic tube-like passageway that extends from the uterus to the outside of the body.
Ovaries- Female sex glands
Function: House the ova and produce female hormones estrogen and progesterone
Cervix- Neck of uterus dilates during birth to allow passage of baby
Uterus- Strong elastic muscle about the size of a fist
Function: Hold and nourish developing embryo and fetus; fertilized egg implants itself here
Lining of the uterus is called endometrium
Fallopian Tubes- Located on each side of the uterus, and are lined w/ cilia (tiny hair-like projections) fertilization occurs here.
Fertilized egg travels down these tubes and implants in the uterus

3. External Organs
Mons Pubis- Rounded fatty pad of tissue, covered w/ pubic hair
Labia Majora- Outer fold of tissue on either side of vaginal opening
Labia Minora- Inner fold of tissue that extends forward forming a hood-like covering over the clitoris

5. Female Concerns
Infertility- Inability for a female to become pregnant
Problems that can cause infertility:
Blocked fallopian tubes- Causes are pelvic inflammatory disease or abdominal surgery. ***Leading cause of infertility***
Endometriosis- Uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, often appearing on the ovaries, fallopian tubes and the abdominal cavity
Problems related to menstruation:
Menstrual cramps- Cramps in abdominal occur during menstrual period

6. Concerns continued…
Vaginitis- Most common vaginal infection in women of childbearing age
Symptoms: Discharge, odor, itching, pain.
Amenorrhea- Lack of menstruation by age of 16 or stopping of cycle for 3 or more months
(PMS) Premenstrual Syndrome- Symptoms are: nervous tension, anxiety, irritability, bloating, weight gain, depression, mood swings
(TSS) Toxic Shock Syndrome- Staph Infection
~Bacteria produce a toxic poison that affects liver and the immune system
Symptoms: vomiting, dizziness, rash, kidney and liver damage,
Yeast Infection- Fungus, discharge, foul odor, and severe itching.
Effects Vulva and Vaginal Opening

7. Concerns continued…
Breast Cancer- Change in breast or nipple, lump or swelling in breast or armpit
~4000 women and 400 men will die this yr of breast cancer
Mammogram- X-ray exam of the breasts used to detect and evaluate changes
Cervical Cancer- Causes can include many sexual partners, early sexual activity, effects women between Caused by HPV
Pap Smear- Test to detect for abnormal cells in cervix
Ovarian Cysts- Fluid-filled sacs on the ovary. Small non-cancerous, usually disappear on their own. Larger cysts may need surgery

8. Female Athlete Triad Menstrual disturbances Bone loss
A syndrome of three interrelated conditions that exist on a continuum of severity including
Energy deficiency with or without disordered eating, menstrual disturbances/amenorrhea, bone loss/osteoporosis
Energy deficiency with or without disordered eating
imbalance between amount of energy consumed and amount of energy expended during exercise or activity
Primary cause of triad is energy deficiency
Menstrual disturbances
Amenorrhea (no menstrual period for 3 months or more)
Athletes who have irregular cycles are also susceptible to the effects of the triad
Bone loss
Higher risk for low bone mass leading to weakening bones called osteoporosis
Increase risk of fractures

10. Preventing Problems
1. Prevent STDs
2. Prevent vaginal irritation: redness, itching, and mild pain. Avoid wearing. tight clothing
3. Relieving menstrual cramps- taking warm baths, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing caffeine and sugar intake