<P> The human female reproductive system is a series of organs primarily located inside of the body and around the pelvic region of a female that contribute towards the reproductive process . The human female reproductive system contains three main parts: the vulva, which leads to the vagina, the vaginal opening, to the uterus; the uterus, which holds the developing fetus; and the ovaries, which produce the female's ova . The breasts are involved during the parenting stage of reproduction, but in most classifications they are not considered to be part of the female reproductive system . </P> <P> The vagina meets the outside at the vulva, which also includes the labia, clitoris and urethra; during intercourse this area is lubricated by mucus secreted by the Bartholin's glands . The vagina is attached to the uterus through the cervix, while the uterus is attached to the ovaries via the fallopian tubes . Each ovary contains hundreds of egg cells or ova (singular ovum). </P> <P> Approximately every 28 days, the pituitary gland releases a hormone that stimulates some of the ova to develop and grow . One ovum is released and it passes through the fallopian tube into the uterus . Hormones produced by the ovaries prepare the uterus to receive the ovum . The lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, and unfertilized ova are shed each cycle through the process of menstruation . If the ovum is fertilized by sperm, it attaches to the endometrium and the fetus develops . </P> <P> The development of the reproductive system and the development of the urinary system are closely tied in the development of the human fetus . Despite the differences between the adult female and male are derived from the intermediate mesoderm . The three main fetal precursors of the reproductive organs are the Wolffian duct, Müllerian ducts, and the gonad . Endocrine hormones are a well known and critical controlling factor in the normal differentiation of the reproductive system . </P>

Describe the structure and function of the reproductive system in human beings