Woman
A woman is an adult female human.[a][2][3]Before adulthood, a female child or adolescent is referred to as a girl.[4]
Anatomically the general female characteristic of human sexual dimorphism is the human female reproductive system, which includes the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, vagina, and vulva. Accompanying characteristics are larger breasts, which might produce human milk, and generally a wider pelvis and broader hips. These characteristics facilitate pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding. Additional common characteristics are less facial and body hair, a higher body fat composition, shorter stature, and less muscle mass. Women are at greater risk of certain diseases like breast cancer, and at lower risk of other diseases like lung cancer. Genetically, women inherit typically a pair of X chromosomes, one from each parent. Sex differentiation of the female foetus is governed by the lack of a present functioning SRY gene on either one of the respective sex chromosomes.[5]
Transgender women were assigned male at birth.[6][7] Some women are intersex, meaning they have unusual sex characteristics (chromosomes, genitalia or internal sex organs), such as trisomy X or vaginal atresia.[8][9]
Women are fundamental to human societies and have occupied positions at every level of society throughout history, but patriarchalgender roles have often limited or dominated women and femininity. With roles loosening during the 20th century in many societies, women have gained wider access to careersand education. Reproductive rights and women's rights have been raised globally, with some countries denying some of those rights to women. Violence against women is primarily committed by men. Many religions and governments stipulate certain rules for women. Feminist movements aim to achieve gender equality.