From the end of each tube, but not directly connected with it, is suspended a small almond-shaped body called the ovary. Each ovary is similar in shape and size to an almond, measuring about one and a half inches in length, three-fourths of an inch in width and one-half an inch in thickness. The function or work of the ovaries is to produce, develop and mature the ova (eggs) and to discharge them when fully formed so they may enter the tubes and so find their way to the womb. In every ovary there are several hundred little ovules or eggs in various stages of development. At irregular intervals one of these ovules ripens and leaves the ovary. It passes along the fallopian tube to the womb. Here it remains if it is impregnated or fertilized, and develops into the babe. If not impregnated, it passes off with the menstrual flow. Every twenty-eight days large quantities of blood are sent to the womb, producing a natural congestion. The pressure of this extra blood in the tiny capillaries of the womb stretches and weakens their walls. This allows the blood, which is being sent to the womb to provide nourishment for the ovum if it be impregnated, to pass into the cavity of the womb, then out through the mouth into the vagina, thence to the external parts. This flow is called the menstrual flow. When the flow ceases the mucosa or lining assumes its former state. This process is repeated every month. [Illustration: 1. Bladder 2. Urethra 3. Uterus 4. Vagina 5. Rectum 6. Peritoneum 7. Perineum VERTICAL SECTION OF PELVIS] Lining the cavity of the abdomen and also folded over the womb, ovaries, tubes and other organs is a thin membrane called the peritoneum. An inflammation of this lining is called peritonitis. All these organs I have mentioned are situated inside the body out of sight, but there are other organs that are external. You have noticed two longitudinal folds of skin extending from the anus, or external opening of the rectum, to the rounded eminence in front. Their outer surface is covered with hair and their inner surface with glands that secrete a lubricating material. These folds are called the labia majora. Within the labia majora are two smaller folds called the labia minora. These folds meet at their anterior (front) end. At the meeting point you will notice a very small structure which is called the clitoris. This clitoris is very similar in structure to the penis of the male, having a tiny prepuce or foreskin which folds over to protect the sensitive end. Sometimes the foreskin is bound down too tightly, so that instead of being a protection to the parts, it becomes a source of irritation. Then we say the clitoris is hooded and it is necessary to loosen or cut this fold of skin. The operation is similar to that of circumcision in the male.