Page:The New System of Gynaecology Vol 1.djvu/59

This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.

PHYSIOLOGY OF THE FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS

By Louise M'Ilroy, M.D.

(Glasgow)

SYNOPSIS

I. (a) Structure and Functions of External Genitals, Vagina, Cervix, and Uterus. (b) Structure of Uterine Mucosa during Phases of Menstrual Cj^cle. (c) Structure of Fallopian Tube.

II. (a) Development of the Ovary. Oogenesis. (b) Structure of Graafian Follicle and Corpus Luteum.

III. (a) Theories of Menstruation, (b) Changes which occur at Puberty, (c) The Menstrual Cycle, (d) Functions of Corpus Luteum and Interstitial Cells, and Factors which influence Menstruation.

IV. (a) Menstruation and Ovulation. (b) Factors which influence Fertilization.

V. (a) Influence of Ovarian Secretion upon Development, Growth, Pregnancy, and Metabolism, (b) Transplantation of Ovaries, (c) Secondary Sex-Characteristics, (d) The Menopause.

VI. Function of the Uterine Mucosa.

VII. Structure of the Mammas. Mammary Secretion.

VIII. Correlation of the Internal Secretory Organs with the Function of Reproduction.

SECTION I

A. STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONS OF EXTERNAL GENITALS, VAGINA, CERVIX, AND UTERUS 1[1]

External Genitals.—The mons veneris is composed mainly of fatty tissue, vascular, and nerve structures. In the adult it is covered with hair. It serves as a protection from pressure upon the sensitive structures in the region of the clitoris. The labia majora are covered with skin and hair in the adult condition. The inner

  1. 1 The gross anatomy and topography of these parts has been described in the preceding Article on Anatomy. Editors.