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Female reproductive system
The female reproductive system is involved in sexuality and fertility. It includes the vagina, womb (uterus), fallopian tubes and ovaries. Menstrual periods, ovulation, pregnancy, birth and menopause are part of the female reproductive cycle.
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Topic: Menstruation
Menstrual cycle
The menstrual cycle is complex and controlled by many different glands and the hormones they produce.
Menstruation - abnormal bleeding
Heavy or abnormal periods may be an indication of other health problems.
Menstruation - amenorrhoea
Some women are at greater risk of amenorrhoea (the absence of periods) due to stress and weight change.
Menstruation - athletic amenorrhoea
Women who are athletes or who exercise excessively on a regular basis are at risk of developing athletic amenorrhoea, which is the absence of periods.
Menstruation - dysmenorrhoea
Women of any age can experience painful periods and some women find periods are no longer painful after pregnancy and childbirth.
Ovulation
The female body shows several signs of ovulation and you may experience some or all of these signs.
Ovulation pain
Ovulation pain is usually harmless, but can sometimes indicate various medical conditions such as endometriosis.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Most menstruating women have some form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Toxic shock syndrome
If you think you might have toxic shock syndrome, stop using tampons immediately and go to the emergency department of your nearest hospital.
