The female reproductive system functions to produce eggs (ova), sex hormones, and support the development of fertilized eggs into mature fetuses ready for birth. It operates between menarche (the onset of menstruation) and menopause (the cessation of menstruation for 12 consecutive months). Throughout this timeframe, there's a cyclical release of eggs from the ovary, which have the potential to be fertilized by male sperm. This cyclical release of eggs is a natural aspect of the menstrual cycle.