Oviduct
Updated:The oviduct, also known as the fallopian tube, is a crucial part of the female reproductive system. It's a pair of thin tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. These tubes play a vital role in the reproductive process by providing a pathway for the egg (ovum) to travel from the ovary to the uterus. The oviduct is also where fertilization typically occurs if sperm is present.
Additional Information
Each oviduct is about 10-12 cm long and is lined with ciliated cells that help move the egg along its journey. The oviduct also secretes fluids that nourish both the egg and sperm, supporting fertilization and early embryo development. Interestingly, the oviduct can detect the presence of sperm and adjust its environment to facilitate fertilization.
Problems with the oviducts, such as blockages or scarring, can lead to fertility issues. Ectopic pregnancies, where a fertilized egg implants in the oviduct instead of the uterus, are a serious medical condition that can occur in this part of the reproductive system.
Examples
During ovulation, the egg is released from the ovary and swept into the oviduct by finger-like projections called fimbriae.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) bypasses the oviducts by fertilizing the egg in a laboratory before transferring the embryo directly to the uterus.