Embryology of the Female Reproductive Tract

Abstract

The development of the normal female reproductive tract is a complex process. The indifferent gonad differentiates to the ovary. The mesonephros, Wolffian and Müllerian ducts differentiate in an orchestrated manner to form the uterus, vagina and lower urinary tract. Disordered differentiation can result in congenital abnormalities affecting the female reproductive tracts, renal tract and lower intestines. A number of rudimentary structures can persist and be encountered in clinical practice, most commonly these are derived from the Wolffian ducts. This chapter provides an overview of the embryology of the female genital tract relevant to the multidisciplinary team caring for young females presenting with illnesses related to the reproductive system.