Human female reproductive system

Which of the following statements about the menstrual cycle is false?

• Progesterone levels rise during the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle and the secretory phase of the uterine cycle

• Menstruation occurs just after LH and FSH levels peak

• Menstruation occurs after progesterone levels drop

• Estrogen levels rise before ovulation, while progesterone levels rise after

Answer explanation

The statement 'Menstruation occurs just after LH and FSH levels peak' is false. Menstruation actually occurs after progesterone levels drop, not immediately after the peak of LH and FSH.

The female gamete is an

• egg

• ovum

• oocyte

• all of these names apply

Answer explanation

The female gamete is referred to by several terms: 'egg', 'ovum', and 'oocyte'. All these names apply to the same reproductive cell, making 'all of these names apply' the correct answer.

Which female reproductive structure contains the ova?

• fallopian tube

• uterus

• cervix

• ovary

Answer explanation

The ova, or eggs, are produced and stored in the ovaries. The fallopian tubes, uterus, and cervix are involved in the reproductive process but do not contain the ova.

The fertilised egg is called

• zygote

• embryo

• foetus

Answer explanation

The fertilised egg is called a zygote. It is the initial cell formed when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg cell, marking the beginning of development before it becomes an embryo.

Which term describes the narrow opening of the uterus that extends into the vagina?

• fundus

• cervix

• vulva

• labia majora

Answer explanation

The term that describes the narrow opening of the uterus extending into the vagina is the cervix. It serves as a passageway between the uterus and vagina, unlike the fundus, vulva, or labia majora, which refer to different structures.

A muscular tube leading from the cervix to the outside of the body is the:

• fallopian tube

• labia majora

• vagina

• vulva

Answer explanation

The muscular tube leading from the cervix to the outside of the body is the vagina. It serves as the birth canal and the passage for menstrual fluid, distinguishing it from the fallopian tubes, labia majora, and vulva.

Ovulation is controlled by ______

Answer explanation

Ovulation is primarily controlled by Luteinizing Hormone (LH), which triggers the release of an egg from the ovary. Therefore, both 'LH' and 'Luteinizing hormone' are correct answers.

Where in the body does fertilisation occur in humans?

• Epididymis

• Uterus

• Oviduct

• Vagina

Answer explanation

Fertilisation in humans occurs in the oviduct, also known as the fallopian tube, where the sperm meets the egg. The other options, such as the epididymis, uterus, and vagina, are not the site of fertilisation.

Which part of the female reproductive system produces oestrogen and progesterone?

• A

• B

• C

• D

Answer explanation

The ovaries (choice B) are the part of the female reproductive system responsible for producing the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, which are crucial for regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting pregnancy.

Structure 7 is the 

• cervix

• vagina

• uterus

• ovary

Answer explanation

Structure 7 refers to the ovary, which is responsible for producing eggs and hormones in the female reproductive system. The cervix, vagina, and uterus serve different functions, making ovary the correct choice.