Gyne
Gyne
Internal Organs:
Ovaries (Ovaria): These paired, almond-shaped organs located in the lower abdomen
play a vital role in the menstrual cycle and ovulation. They house immature egg cells
(oocytes) that mature into ova and produce sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Fallopian Tubes (Uterine Tubes): These slender tubes , one on each side of the
uterus, act as a bridge between the ovaries and the uterus. They capture the released
egg during ovulation and provide a pathway for sperm to reach the egg for fertilization.
Uterus (Womb): This pear-shaped, muscular organ is the home for a developing fetus.
It has three layers: the outer perimetrium, the middle myometrium (smooth muscle), and
the inner endometrium. The endometrium thickens and sheds during the menstrual
cycle in preparation for pregnancy. The cervix, the lower narrow part of the uterus,
connects it to the vagina.
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Vagina: This muscular canal connects the cervix to the external opening (vulva). It
serves as the passage for menstrual blood, childbirth, and sexual intercourse.
Mons Pubis: The fatty, rounded mound at the front of the pubic bone, covered with
pubic hair.
Labia Majora: The larger outer skin folds protecting the inner vulva.
Labia Minora: The smaller inner folds of skin lining the labia majora.
Clitoris: A small, highly sensitive erectile tissue crucial for sexual pleasure.
Physiological Processes:
Menstrual Cycle: This intricate hormonal cycle regulates the preparation of the uterus
for pregnancy. Each cycle typically lasts 28-35 days and involves:
o Follicular Phase: The rise in estrogen stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries,
containing immature eggs.
o Ovulation: The release of a mature egg from the ovary.
o Luteal Phase: The remaining follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, producing
progesterone. If fertilization doesn't occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, leading to a
drop in progesterone, triggering menstruation.
Fertilization and Pregnancy: During sexual intercourse, sperm travels through the
cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes. If a sperm fertilizes the egg in the fallopian tube, the
fertilized egg implants itself in the endometrium of the uterus, initiating pregnancy.
Hormonal Regulation: Estrogen and progesterone play a critical role in various
functions:
o Estrogen: Stimulates egg follicle growth, regulates menstrual cycle, and promotes
development of female secondary sexual characteristics.
o Progesterone: Thickens the endometrium for implantation, prepares breasts for milk
production, and maintains pregnancy.
Endometriosis: The presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, causing pelvic
pain and infertility.
Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous tumors of the uterine smooth muscle that can cause
heavy bleeding or pelvic pain.
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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Untreated STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea
can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), damaging reproductive organs and
impacting fertility.
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