Assignment on Female Reproductive
System
Subject: Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Course: B.Sc. Nursing (4th Semester)
Submitted by: Shane Gonsalves
College: Vrundavan Institute of Nursing Education
Date: [Insert Date]
Introduction
The female reproductive system is a highly specialized group of organs responsible for
reproduction, menstruation, and hormonal balance. A thorough understanding of its
anatomy and physiology is essential for nursing students and healthcare providers,
especially those working in obstetrics and gynaecology. According to DC Dutta’s Textbook
of Obstetrics, accurate knowledge of this system forms the basis for diagnosing and
managing various reproductive health issues in women.
Main Components of the Female Reproductive System
The system is divided into two main parts:
- External Genitalia (Vulva)
- Internal Genitalia
A. External Genitalia (Vulva)
The external genitalia serve protective, sensory, and sexual functions. They include:
1. Mons Pubis: A fatty pad of tissue located over the pubic symphysis. After puberty, it
becomes covered with pubic hair.
2. Labia Majora: Two thick folds of skin extending from the mons pubis to the perineum.
They contain sebaceous glands, sweat glands, and hair follicles.
3. Labia Minora: Thin, hairless folds located medial to the labia majora. Rich in blood vessels
and nerve endings.
4. Clitoris: Small, erectile, and highly sensitive structure, homologous to the male penis.
5. Vestibule: Space between labia minora containing openings of urethra, vagina, and
Bartholin's glands.
6. Perineum: The area between vaginal opening and anus; supports pelvic floor and
involved in episiotomy.
B. Internal Genitalia
The internal organs are essential for ovulation, fertilization, implantation, and childbirth.
1. Vagina: A muscular tube (7–10 cm) connecting vulva to uterus. Functions in
menstruation, intercourse, and childbirth.
2. Uterus: Pear-shaped, muscular organ (~7.5 cm long). Divided into fundus, body, isthmus,
and cervix. Layers: perimetrium, myometrium, endometrium.
3. Fallopian Tubes: ~10 cm long tubes, parts include fimbriae, infundibulum, ampulla, and
isthmus. Site of fertilization.
4. Ovaries: Almond-shaped glands that produce ova and hormones (estrogen,
progesterone).
Blood Supply and Innervation
Arterial Supply:
- Uterine artery (from internal iliac)
- Ovarian artery (from abdominal aorta)
Venous Drainage:
- Uterine veins into internal iliac vein
- Ovarian veins: right into IVC, left into renal vein
Nerve Supply:
- Pelvic autonomic plexus (sympathetic and parasympathetic)
- Sensory nerves to vulva and perineum
Functions of the Female Reproductive System
1. Hormonal regulation (estrogen, progesterone)
2. Production of ova
3. Facilitation of sexual intercourse
4. Menstruation and endometrial shedding
5. Fertilization and implantation
6. Fetal development
7. Labor and delivery
8. Lactation
9. Maintenance of secondary sexual traits
10. Emotional and psychological reproductive health
Clinical Relevance (According to DC Dutta)
- PID: Infection of tubes, uterus, ovaries
- Endometriosis: Ectopic endometrial tissue
- Fibroids: Benign uterine tumors
- Ovarian cysts: Fluid-filled sacs
- Cervical cancer: Related to HPV
- PCOS: Hormonal disorder affecting menstruation and fertility
Conclusion
The female reproductive system plays a crucial role in the continuation of life and
maintenance of hormonal balance. Understanding its structure and function is vital in the
field of nursing and midwifery. With knowledge based on DC Dutta’s Obstetrics and
Gynaecology, healthcare providers can offer better care, especially in the domains of
maternal and reproductive health.
References
1. Dutta, D. C. (2021). Textbook of Obstetrics (9th ed.). Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers.
2. Dutta, D. C. (2020). Textbook of Gynaecology (8th ed.). Jaypee Brothers Medical
Publishers.
3. Tortora, G. J., & Derrickson, B. H. (2017). Principles of Anatomy and Physiology. Wiley.
4. Ross and Wilson. (2019). Anatomy and Physiology in Health and Illness (13th ed.).
