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1-2. TERMS AND DEFINITIONS These are only a few terms and definitions that will be used in this lesson. Other terms and definitions will be dispersed throughout the lesson. - a. Broad Ligaments. Two wing-like structures that extend from the lateral margins of the uterus to the pelvic walls and divide the pelvic cavity into an anterior and a posterior compartment.
- b. Corpus Luteum. The yellow mass found in the graafian follicle after the ovum has been expelled.
- c. Estrogen. The generic term for the female sex hormones. It is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the ovaries but also by the adrenal cortex.
- d. Fimbriae. Fringes; especially the finger-like ends of the fallopian tube.
- e. Follicle. A pouch like depression or cavity.
- f. Follicle Stimulating Hormone. The follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary during the first half of the menstrual cycle. It stimulates development of the graafian follicle.
- g. Graafian Follicle. A mature, fully developed ovarian cyst containing the ripe ovum.
- h. Hormone. A chemical substance produced in an organ, which, being carried to an associated organ by the bloodstream excites in the latter organ, a functional activity.
- i. Lactation. The production of milk by the mammary glands.
- j. Luteinizing Hormone. A hormone produced by the anterior pituitary that stimulates ovulation and the development of the corpus luteum.
- k. Oocyte. A developing egg in one of two stages.
- l. Ovum. The female reproductive cell.
- m. Progesterone. The pure hormone contained in the corpora lutea whose function is to prepare the endometrium for the reception and development of the fertilized ovum.
- n. Reproduction. The process by which an offspring is formed.
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