The group of organs and structures, both internal and external, involved in a woman’s capacity to have sexual intercourse, produce eggs (reproductive cells), become pregnant, and give birth.
The female reproductive structures play roles in ovulation, sexual intercourse, supporting a fertilized egg until it matures into a fully developed fetus, and facilitating childbirth. These organs, excluding the vulva which safeguards the vaginal opening, are located within the pelvic cavity.
Each month, an egg is released from one of the two ovaries. These ovaries also produce hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which play crucial roles in regulating the reproductive cycle along with follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. The egg travels through the fallopian tubes to reach the uterus. If a sperm, released during sexual intercourse or artificial insemination, journeys through the cervix and uterus to intersect with the egg while it’s in the fallopian tube, fertilization occurs.
The female reproductive system commences its regular operations during puberty, marked by the initiation of menstruation, and its capacity for reproduction concludes with the onset of menopause.