Physiology of the Female Reproductive System

Oogenesis is the maturation of the female gametes through meiotic division.

The menstrual cycle is the physiological process that fertile women undergo for the purposes of reproduction and fertilization.

The uterine cycle describes a series of changes that occur to the lining of the uterus, or endometrium, during a typical menstrual cycle.

The menstrual cycle is controlled by a series of changes in hormone levels, primarily estrogen and progesterone.

Estrogen and progesterone have several effects beyond their immediate roles in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and labor.

Female sexual arousal causes physiological changes including increased blood flow to the genitals and enlargement and lubrication of the vagina.