What is the primary function of the vulva?
Outer appearance of reproductive organs
What is the role of the vagina in childbirth?
Birth canal for the baby
Where is the perineum located?
Between the anus and vagina or scrotum
What is the cervix?
The opening to the uterus from the vagina
What marks the first day of the menstrual cycle?
Uterine lining begins to shed
On average, how long does menstruation typically last?
3–8 days
During which days does the uterine lining begin to thicken and prepare for pregnancy?
Days 6–14
Around what day does ovulation usually occur?
Day 14
What happens if the egg is fertilized?
It implants in the uterus
What causes menstruation to restart if fertilization does not occur?
Hormonal changes signal the uterus to shed its lining
What is the average length of a menstrual cycle?
21-35 days from the first day of one period to the next
What is the follicular phase?
Days 6–14: uterine lining thickens to prepare for pregnancy
What happens during ovulation?
An egg is released from the ovary and moves into the fallopian tube
What is the luteal phase?
Days 14–25: the body prepares for potential implantation
What happens during days 25-28 if fertilization does not occur?
Hormonal changes trigger the shedding of the uterine lining
Where does fertilization typically occur?
In the fallopian tube
What is the endometrium?
The inner lining of the uterus that thickens each cycle
What causes the uterine lining to shed?
A drop in pregnancy hormones (e.g., estrogen and progesterone)
How often does menstruation occur in a healthy cycle?
About once a month after puberty
Why is the menstrual cycle important for pregnancy?
It prepares the body to potentially support a fertilized egg
What is the primary function of the placenta during pregnancy?
Serve as the organ of exchange between mother and fetus
How is the placenta connected to the fetus?
Via the umbilical cord containing 2 arteries and 1 vein
Which of the following is the most important factor in determining uterine blood flow?
Maternal blood pressure
How does pain affect placental blood flow?
Reduces it via catecholamine release and hyperventilation