Oviduct (fallopian tube) – Tutorial
Please read Unit 13 – Introduction to Female Reproductive System Tissues prior to completing the activities in this chapter.
Introduction to the Oviducts (Fallopian Tubes)
The oviducts (fallopian tubes, uterine tubes) are hollow tubes with muscular walls that extend approximately 5 inches (13cm) from each ovary to the uterus. The oviducts serve to transport an ovulated oocyte from the ovary where ovulation occurs to the uterine cavity. The lateral portion of an oviduct nearest the ovary is known as the infundibulum. The infundibulum is expanded near the ovary with fingerlike extensions called fimbriae that loosely wrap over the surface of the ovary.
When ovulation occurs, the fimbriae and ciliated cells lining the infundibulum sweep an ovulated oocyte into the lumen of the oviduct. Once inside the oviduct, the combination of peristaltic contractions of smooth muscle in the wall of the tube and sweeping action of ciliated columnar cells lining the lumen gradually transports an oocyte toward the uterine cavity. Fertilization of an oocyte by a sperm usually occurs somewhere along the length of the oviduct. If fertilization occurs, the resulting zygote/pre-embryo is transported toward the uterus by the same combination of peristaltic contractions and ciliary movement.
Tutorial: Use the image slider below to learn more about the structure and characteristics of the oviducts (fallopian tubes).
Microscopy: Use the image slider below to learn how to use a microscope to study the oviducts (fallopian tubes) on a microscope slide.
