Biology Today — May 2017

External Genitalia (Vulva): The external genitalia in human female is collectively called vulva.

Fig.: External genitalia in human female

Clitoral hood

Mons pubis is anterior most portion, cushion of

fatty tissues covered by skin and pubic hair.

Perineum

Extends from fourchette to anus.

Vaginal opening

Opening of vagina which provides passage

for menstrual flow and insertion of penis.

Hymen remnants

Urethral opening

Small opening of urethra below clitoris

through which urine is excreted.

Anus

Opening of rectum to outside through which

faecal material is expelled out.

Clitoris

Homologous to glans penis of male,

contains erectile tissue.

Labia majora

Two large fleshy folds of skin, homologous

to the scrotum of male.

Labia minora

Two smaller folds of skin, homologous to

penile urethra of male.

Fourchette

Posteriorly fused labia minora.

Accessory Glands

Vestibular glands

• These are present in external genitalia. They are of two types:

Lesser vestibular glands /Paraurethal glands/ Glands of Skene

•    Numerous small glands present on both sides of the urethral

opening.

•    Homologous to the male prostate and secrete mucus.

Greater vestibular glands/Bartholin’s glands

•    Paired glands present one on each side of the vaginal opening.

•    Homologous to the Cowper’s glands of male and secrete viscid

fluid for lubrication.

Mammary glands

• Mammary glands or breasts are modified sweat glands comprising of glandular tissues that form mammary glands, connective
tissues and adipose tissue.

Fig.: Females’s breast in sagittal section

Interlobular connective tissue

Supports alveoli and the ducts.

Mammary lobes

Approx. 15-25 lobes radiate

around and open at the nipple.

Intercostal muscles

Muscles between ribs

Mammary skin

Mammary duct alveoli open into mammary

tubules that join to form a mammary duct.

Lactiferous duct

Carries milk from one of the lobes to exterior.

Nipple

Multiporous tip for the release of milk,

through this milk is sucked out.

Areola

Circular pigmented area around nipple due

to presence of numerous sebaceous glands.

Mammary ampulla

Wider opening of several mammary duct where some milk

may be stored temporarily.

Mammary alveoli

Produce milk in lactating woman.

Pectoralis major muscle

Ribs

Fat