Female Reproductive Tract Notes
Female Reproductive Tract Notes
Female Reproductive Tract Notes
Vulva:
▪ Left and Right Labia: 1st
defense against bacteria
entering the reproductive
tract
WHAT: the muscular “valve” or “control gate”
between the uterus and the vagina
Made of muscular folds that slow down invading
materials
These folds have ‘dead ends’ that trap foreign
substances
WHY: Completely closed except during estrus and
parturition (birthing) to prevent foreign
substances/infection.
Opens during estrus/parturition to allow for young/sperm
During pregnancy, a hard mucus plug “glues” it
shut
Forms a VERY tight barrier between itself and the uterus
Species Differences in the Shape of the Cervix:
Cow, Ewe, Nanny: Annular Rings
Sow: Corkscrew Shape
Mare: Longitudinal Folds
Cervix Oviduct
Uterine Horn
WHAT: tubes that carry eggs from ovaries to uterus
Kept shut tight except during ovulation and insemination