THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

     The function of the reproductive organs is to produce life -- fuller and richer life for one's self and the new life of little ones who will grow up to assume our tasks.  In these organs lie the woman's power to become a mother and the man's power to become a father.  The girls reproductive organs consist of the uterus or womb, two fallopian tubes, two ovaries, and the vagina.

     The uterus or womb is a pear-shaped body about 3 inches long, hanging with the small end downward in the lower part of the body.  Its lower end opens into the vagina which is a short tube connecting it with the outside.  The fallopian tubes are attached to each side of the upper end of the uterus.  Beyond the end of each tube is an ovary.

     In addition to making the secretion which helps to develop the girl into a woman, the ovaries make tiny egg cells.  Each cell contains the mother's portion of the life of  a child.  After the girl's sex organs have partially matured, at 12 to 15 years of age, one of these egg cells develop about once in 28 days.  It passes from the ovary and finds its way down the fallopian tube.

     At about the time the egg cell leaves the ovary, an additional supply of blood is sent to the uterus.  If this is not needed for the development of the egg cell it passes out of the body at the monthly or menstrual period.  This is called menstruation.  Menstruation is a normal experience and not an illness as many girls have been taught to believe.  A girl who is well and strong should feel little or no discomfort during her menstrual period.  To avoid unnecessary distress due to pressure upon the uterus, special care should be taken at this time to empty the bowel and bladder regularly.  Vigorous forms of exercise such as swimming and horseback riding should be avoided, but some regular exercise should be taken.  The external parts of the sex organs should always be kept clean and free from the irritation of tight clothing.  Bathing with warm water and sop is especially necessary during menstruation, but care should be taken to avoid getting chilled.  If a complete bath cannot be taken, the external parts of these organs should be washed night and morning.