The female reproductive system makes eggs and hormones, carries a pregnancy and delivers a baby. Most of its organs lie deep in the pelvis, between the bladder in front and the rectum behind.
Ovaries
The two ovaries hold the eggs and make estrogen and progesterone. They sit on each side of the uterus and are about the size of an almond.
Uterine tubes
Each tube has a fringed end that catches the egg released from the ovary. Fertilization usually happens in the tube, which is also where most ectopic pregnancies implant.
Uterus and cervix
The uterus is a thick muscular organ with a lining, the endometrium, that grows and sheds each cycle. The cervix is its narrow lower end, which opens into the vagina.
Vagina and vulva
The vagina is a muscular canal from the cervix to the outside. The vulva includes the labia, the clitoris and the openings of the urethra and vagina.
At the bedside
On a speculum exam you see the vagina and cervix; on the bimanual exam you feel the size of the uterus and check the adnexa for masses or tenderness. Pelvic pain with a positive pregnancy test is an ectopic pregnancy until proven otherwise.
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Written by Making Synapses. Topic reference: OpenStax, Anatomy and Physiology 2e (no text adapted).