The Female Reproductive System

The typical female reproductive system consists of organs inside and outside the body.

The external organs (outside the body) - the vulva:

  • The entrance to the vagina
  • Urethral opening
  • Labia
  • Clitoris


The internal organs (inside the body):

  • Ovaries
  • Fallopian tubes
  • Uterus (womb)
  • Cervix
  • Vagina


The typical female reproductive organs outside the body
The vulva is the part at the opening to the vagina, the opening of the urethra, the clitoris, and the labia (also referred to as the inner and the outer set of lips). The upper part surrounds the cervix, and the lower part is protected by the labia. The labia are the major externally visible portions of the vulva (labia majora and labia minora) that protect the vagina. The labia can be covered by pubic hair on the sides. The hair is there to help protect your vulva and vagina. The clitoris is the supersensitive area that is generally the primary anatomical source for sexual pleasure. This part may vary in size, especially when stimulated, as blood rushes to the area. It is very important to note that there is no "normal" vulva. The vulva comes in different shapes and sizes, particularly when it comes to the labia. Starting with the skin colour of the labia, this may look different from the rest of your skin tone. They can look straight or wavy, with bigger outer lips or the other way round. Similar to the clitoris, the labia minora are sensitive with lots of nerve endings and can swell during stimulation.

The typical female reproductive organs inside the body
The Fallopian tubes are canals through which an egg travels from the ovary to the uterus. Fertilisation normally takes place in the tube. The uterus (or womb) is a hollow, muscular organ where the foetus develops during pregnancy. The vagina or birth canal serves as a passageway during labour. It can also easily stretch during intercourse. It has glands which produce lubricating secretions during sex to make it more comfortable. Ovaries produce ova (about 2 million eggs) in structures called follicles, and sex hormones (progesterone and oestrogen). The quality of these eggs decreases as a female gets older. The sex hormones cause sexual development and control reproduction. They are mainly responsible for body shape, breast development, and the menstrual cycle. The cervix is a narrow region following the uterus that leads to the vagina. It secretes mucus which serves to protect against bacteria from entering the uterus. The consistency of the mucus affects the passage of sperm.

Your body belongs to you. It is important to know how your body works and how it normally looks to you. This can help you gain knowledge and confidence in your body. You must be able to recognise when something is not right. If you have any concerns speak to your healthcare provider.