| Acrosome | A cap-like structure over the nucleus of a sperm cell, containing enzymes crucial for fertilization as it helps the sperm penetrate the egg. |
| Blastocyst | A stage in early human embryonic development that consists of a fluid-filled cavity and precedes implantation into the uterine wall. |
| Broad Ligament | A wide fold of peritoneum connecting the sides of the uterus to the walls and floor of the pelvis, providing support to the uterus. |
| Cervix | The lower, narrow part of the uterus that opens into the vagina, with a canal that allows passage between the uterus and vagina. |
| Cleavage | A series of rapid cell divisions following fertilization, resulting in the embryo's progression from a zygote to a multicellular structure without growth in size. |
| Corpus Luteum | A temporary endocrine structure in the ovary that secretes hormones, primarily progesterone, to prepare the endometrium for a potential pregnancy. |
| Endometrium | The lining of the uterus, which thickens during the menstrual cycle in preparation for possible implantation of an embryo. |
| Fallopian Tubes | Tubes extending from the uterus to the ovaries, facilitating the passage of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. |
| Fertilization | The process by which a sperm cell and an ovum (egg) merge to form a zygote, initiating embryonic development. |
| Fibroadenoma | A benign, solid, noncancerous tumor in the breast. |
| Follicle | A fluid-filled sac in the ovary that contains an immature egg (oocyte); it grows and matures in response to hormonal signals during the menstrual cycle. |
| Fundus | The rounded upper part of the uterus. |
| GnRH | Gonadotropin-releasing hormone; released by the hypothalamus to stimulate the pituitary gland to secrete gonadotropins, which influence the menstrual cycle and ovulation. |
| LH | Luteinizing hormone; released by the pituitary gland in response to GnRH, with a surge leading to ovulation. |
| Morula | An early stage in the embryo development consisting of approximately 16 cells, resembling a mulberry, following the cleavage stage and preceding the blastocyst stage. |
| Myometrium | The thick, muscular layer of the uterus responsible for contractions during childbirth and menstruation. |
| Ovarian Cysts | Fluid-filled sacs on the ovary, often forming during the process of ovulation and varying in type, from functional cysts related to the menstrual cycle to pathological cysts. |
| Ovary | A reproductive organ in females that produces eggs (ova) and hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. |
| Ovulation | The release of an egg from the ovary into the fallopian tube, where it can be fertilized by sperm. |
| Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) | A condition characterized by the presence of multiple cysts on the ovaries, leading to hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and fertility issues. |
| Spermatogenesis | The process of sperm development, from spermatids to fully mature sperm cells. |
| Ureter | A duct that carries urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder. |
| Uterus | A muscular organ in the female reproductive system where fetal development occurs; consists of the fundus, body, and cervix. |
| Zygote | The first cell of a new individual formed immediately after the sperm and egg nuclei merge during fertilization. |
