The main elements of the reproductive system include the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus, and the vagina.
The ovaries are two small glands located on each side of the uterus that produce the hormones progesterone and estrogen.
About every 28 days, an egg is released from one of the ovaries into the nearby fallopian tube. The role of the fallopian tube is to carry the released eggs to the uterus.
If the egg is fertilized on its way to the uterus, it will implant in to the lining of the uterus and develop into a pregnancy. However, if the egg is not fertilized, it will pass through the uterus and will be shed with the lining. This is called menstruation, or having your period.
The lower part of the uterus is called the cervix. The cervix is a round structure that has a small opening in the center. This acts as a passageway between the uterus and the vagina. In front of the vagina sits the bladder, behind it sits the rectum, and surrounding the pelvic structures are the intestines.