Female Reproductive System: Anatomy, Childbirth, and Gametogenesis

Female Reproductive Tract: Anatomy and Function

• Oviducts (Fallopian Tubes or Uterine Tubes)

  These are two small tubes with a funnel-shaped opening at the end closest to the ovaries. They are responsible for collecting the eggs released by these organs. Fertilization occurs in the fallopian tubes. The innermost layer of these tubes consists of ciliated cells that enable the movement of the eggs along them. They also secrete a fluid that facilitates the movement of the zygote before it reaches the uterus.

• Uterus

  A conical-shaped cavity into which the fallopian tubes lead. Its wall has a thick muscular layer, the myometrium, and is lined internally by a mucous layer, the uterine lining (endometrium). At its lower end, called the neck or cervix, the uterus narrows and opens into the vagina. The process of gestation for a new individual takes place in the uterus.

• Vagina

  An elastic tube containing glands that secrete lubricating fluids to facilitate penile introduction. At the entrance to the vagina, there is a small, incomplete membrane that typically breaks during first intercourse.

• Vulva

  The external genitalia of women. It presents several skin folds, including the clitoris, a very sensitive organ composed of erectile tissue, similar to the penis. Bartholin's glands are located within the labia. These glands produce secretions that lubricate the external genitalia, facilitating sexual intercourse.

Childbirth: A Three-Stage Process

1. Dilation of the Cervix

   This stage lasts between 3 and 12 hours. Simultaneously with cervical dilation, the myometrium undergoes a series of contractions that become more frequent and intense, pushing the fetus into the vagina. Upon completion of this phase, the amnion ruptures, and amniotic fluid exits.

2. Fetal Expulsion

   This stage can last from 30 minutes to 1 hour. The baby typically emerges head first. Once outside, the umbilical cord is tied and cut, leaving a wound that heals to form the navel.

3. Placental Delivery (Afterbirth)

   After childbirth, the uterus undergoes further contractions to expel the placenta and umbilical cord.

Female Gametogenesis: Key Differences from Male Gametogenesis

• It does not occur constantly; instead, it is a discontinuous process.
• It begins at puberty and lasts until menopause.
• From every cell undergoing meiosis, only one egg is produced, whereas in spermatogenesis, four gametes are formed.
• Eggs are produced in much smaller quantities than sperm.