Female Reproductive System

Internal organs of female reproductive system consist of vagina (birth canal), cervix (neck of the womb), uterus (womb), fallopian tubes and ovaries. The hymen is a thin membrane that covers the entrance of the vagina. The vagina is a tubular organ about 3 inches long. During sexual intercourse, the upper part balloons out and the muscle walls contract. At rest, its walls are apposed to each other.

The cervix protrudes into the vagina and sperm enter into the uterus through its mouth. The cervical glands produce mucus which varies in consistency and amount in a cyclical manner. Observations of these changes can help the woman to determine the fertile window.

The uterus is a muscular organ positioned like an upside down pear inside the pelvis. It is about 3 by 2 by 1 inches in dimension. It has a muscular layer (myometrium) and an inner lining (endometrium). Endometrium changes in structure and function according to the hormones affecting it. Normal menstruation is the cyclical shedding of the endometrium. Seen from the side, the uterus is sandwiched between the bladder (in front) and the large intestine at the back.

The fallopian tubes extend from the uterus to open near the ovaries. They are the passage ways for the sperm to meet the egg.

The ovaries are flattened ovoids about 1 and a half inch by half inch by half inch in dimension. They release the eggs cyclically and produce female hormones which stimulate the endometrium.