In human women, oogenesis produces one mature egg cell or ovum for every precursor cell that enters meiosis. This process differs in two unique ways from the equivalent procedure of spermatogenesis in males. First, meiotic divisions during oogenesis are asymmetric, meaning that a large oocyte (containing most of the cytoplasm) and minor polar body are produced as a result of meiosis I, and again following meiosis II. Since only oocytes will go on to form embryos if fertilized, this unequal...

The female reproductive system can be affected by several disorders, including Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), endometriosis, and various forms of cancer. PMS and PMDD are cyclical conditions that cause physical and emotional distress, with symptoms that include edema, mood swings, and food cravings. PMDD is a more severe form of PMS characterized by increased symptom severity that peaks during the luteal phase and tends to improve or resolve shortly after...

The ovaries are roughly the size of almonds and measure approximately 2 to 3 centimeters in length. These paired structures are situated within the pelvic region and are anchored by the mesovarium—a peritoneal extension that also connects them to the wider structure of the broad ligament. The support system extends to the suspensory ligament, housing blood and lymphatic vessels. In addition, the ovarian ligament tethers the ovaries to the uterus.
On the ovarian surface, a layer of cuboidal...