Women’s reproductive organs remain a mystery to many, despite being a vital part of the human body. A recent Reddit thread shed light on some surprising facts about female reproductive health, leaving many women wondering why they didn’t know this sooner.
One shocking fact is that atrophy can occur beyond the labia, affecting the vulva and vagina as well. This condition often begins during perimenopause, a decade before menopause. Another important discovery is that Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is now recognized as a medical condition, not just a myth.
The average clitoris is around 3.5-4 inches long, almost comparable to the size of a typical penis. However, most people are unaware of its existence due to its internal location.
Other surprising facts include the fact that ovarian cysts can cause similar symptoms to endometriosis, and that the fallopian tube doesn’t attract eggs but rather releases chemicals to lure them in. Women who have had their fallopian tubes removed may still be fertile due to the other side’s tube adjusting to collect the egg.
A person can also become pregnant without an embryo, as the body prepares for fertilization with hormones and a placenta. This is why abortion is considered healthcare.
The human placenta receives arterial blood, unlike other mammals. Ovulation and menstruation are two separate processes that don’t always occur together.
The traditional narrative of reproduction being about the fastest sperm winning the egg has been debunked. Instead, eggs send chemical signals to lure sperm, and the egg selects the sperm it wants.
Women can still ovulate and menstruate after a tubal ligation, as their bodies reabsorb the ovum and source menstrual bleeding from the uterine lining.
A “second puberty” occurs around age 25, causing changes in the body that benefit pregnancy. Women may experience increased mass in the hip area, larger breasts, and worsening periods.
Some women experience sharp cramps during ovulation, known as Mittelschmerz. Pelvic organ prolapse affects nearly 50% of women at some point in their lives, often due to inadequate pelvic floor exercises and lifting techniques.
Lastly, fluid-filled tumors called dermoid teratomas can grow bones, teeth, and hair in the ovaries. These benign growths can cause complications if left untreated.
These surprising facts about women’s reproductive organs highlight the importance of understanding and respecting the human body. By sharing these discoveries, we hope to empower women with knowledge and promote better health awareness.
Source: https://www.buzzfeed.com/carleysuthers/female-body-facts-most-people-dont-know