1. Vulva
Definition:
The vulva is the external female genitalia and includes the labia, clitoris, vestibule, and associated glands.
Anatomical Structures of the Vulva:
- Mons Pubis: Fatty pad overlying the pubic symphysis.
- Labia Majora: Outer folds of skin with hair, contain sebaceous & sweat glands.
- Labia Minora: Inner thin folds, rich in blood supply & sensory nerves.
- Clitoris: Highly sensitive erectile tissue, homologous to the male penis.
- Vestibule: Area between the labia minora containing:
- Urethral Opening (Anteriorly).
- Vaginal Orifice (Posteriorly).
- Bartholin’s Glands: Secrete mucus for vaginal lubrication.
Clinical Importance:
- Bartholin’s Cyst/Abscess: Blockage of Bartholin’s gland duct leading to infection.
- Vulvar Carcinoma: Commonly squamous cell carcinoma, associated with HPV infection.
2. Vagina
Definition:
A fibromuscular canal extending from the vulva to the cervix, about 7–10 cm long.
Functions of the Vagina:
- Passage for menstrual blood flow.
- Receptacle for sperm during intercourse.
- Birth canal during labor.
Anatomical Features:
- Vaginal Fornices: Upper part surrounding the cervix (Anterior, Posterior & Lateral fornices).
- Rugae: Transverse folds allowing vaginal expansion.
Clinical Importance:
- Vaginitis: Infections like bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, trichomoniasis.
- Vaginal Prolapse: Weakening of vaginal walls causing protrusion of pelvic organs.
3. Cervix
Definition:
The cervix is the lower part of the uterus, connecting it to the vagina.
Anatomical Parts of the Cervix:
- Ectocervix: Outer part, visible during speculum examination.
- Endocervix: Inner canal leading into the uterine cavity.
- Transformation Zone: Area where columnar epithelium transitions to squamous epithelium (Common site for cervical cancer).
Functions of the Cervix:
- Produces mucus to facilitate or block sperm entry.
- Dilates during labor for fetal passage.
Clinical Importance:
- Cervical Cancer: Associated with HPV infection, detected by Pap smear.
- Cervical Incompetence: Weak cervix leading to recurrent pregnancy loss, treated with cerclage.
4. Uterus
Definition:
The uterus is a hollow, pear-shaped muscular organ responsible for implantation, fetal development, and childbirth.
Anatomical Parts of the Uterus:
- Fundus: Upper dome-shaped part.
- Body: Main portion where implantation occurs.
- Isthmus: Narrow part between body & cervix.
- Cervix: Lower segment connecting to the vagina.
Layers of the Uterus:
- Endometrium: Inner mucosal lining, undergoes cyclical changes.
- Myometrium: Thick muscular layer for contractions during labor.
- Perimetrium: Outer serous layer.
Clinical Importance:
- Endometriosis: Growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.
- Uterine Fibroids: Benign tumors of the myometrium.
- Adenomyosis: Endometrial glands within the myometrium, causing heavy bleeding.
5. Fallopian Tubes (Uterine Tubes, Oviducts)
Definition:
A pair of muscular tubes (10–12 cm long) that transport the ovum from the ovary to the uterus.
Parts of the Fallopian Tube:
- Fimbriae: Finger-like projections that catch the ovulated egg.
- Infundibulum: Funnel-shaped opening near the ovary.
- Ampulla: Site of fertilization (Most common site of ectopic pregnancy).
- Isthmus: Narrow segment before entering the uterus.
- Intramural (Interstitial) Part: Passes through the uterine wall.
Clinical Importance:
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Implantation of the fertilized egg in the fallopian tube.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infections (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea) causing tubal blockage and infertility.
6. Ovaries
Definition:
Paired almond-shaped organs (3 cm × 2 cm) responsible for oocyte production and hormone secretion.
Functions of the Ovaries:
- Oogenesis: Produces eggs (Oocytes).
- Hormone Secretion:
- Estrogen: Promotes follicle growth, secondary sex characteristics.
- Progesterone: Prepares the uterus for implantation.
Clinical Importance:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal disorder causing irregular cycles, infertility.
- Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can cause pelvic pain.
- Ovarian Cancer: Diagnosed using CA-125 marker & Ultrasound.
Summary Table: Female Reproductive Anatomy
|
Structure |
Function |
Clinical Conditions |
|
Vulva |
Protection, Sexual arousal |
Vulvitis, Bartholin’s cyst, Cancer |
|
Vagina |
Copulation, Birth canal |
Vaginitis, Prolapse |
|
Cervix |
Sperm transport, Labor dilation |
Cervical cancer, Incompetence |
|
Uterus |
Fetal implantation & growth |
Fibroids, Endometriosis, Adenomyosis |
|
Fallopian Tubes |
Sperm-egg transport, Fertilization |
Ectopic pregnancy, Tubal blockage |
|
Ovaries |
Oogenesis, Hormone production |
PCOS, Cysts, Ovarian cancer |
Key Takeaways
- The uterus supports pregnancy, and the cervix acts as a barrier.
- Fallopian tubes are essential for fertilization, and ovaries regulate reproduction.
- Common gynecological disorders include PCOS, endometriosis, and cervical cancer.
