Science

• Male Reproductive System:

  • Major structures include testes, vas deferens, prostate, and penis
  • Testes make sperm via meiosis and produce testosterone
  • Testosterone is responsible for male characteristics
  • Epididymis collects mature sperm
  • Vas deferens is a tube for sperm travel and joins with the urethra
  • Vasectomy involves cutting the tube to prevent sperm leaving
  • Prostate produces fluid carrying sperm during ejaculation and surrounds the urethra
  • Circumcision involves surgically removing the foreskin from the penis
• Female Reproduction:

  • Main structures include ovary, uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina, and cervix
  • Ovary produces eggs through meiosis
  • Ovaries secrete estrogen and progesterone
  • Estrogen is responsible for female secondary sex characteristics
  • Progesterone regulates menstruation
  • Fertilized egg is called a zygote
  • Uterus maintains environment for accepting a fertilized egg
  • Cervix protrudes into the vagina
  • Cervical cancer is caused by HPV
  • Pap test checks for abnormalities around the cervix
  • Menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining monthly
• Fertilization and Pregnancy:

  • Fertilization occurs in the fallopian tubes
  • Zygote implants in the uterus
  • Pregnancy symptoms include missed period, breast tenderness, and nausea
  • Fetal development progresses from embryo to fetus
  • Morning sickness is likely due to hormone changes
  • Fetal tests include ultrasound and amniocentesis
  • Labor involves muscle contractions and dilation of the cervix
  • Placenta attaches to the fetus via the umbilical cord
  • Caesarean section is a surgical delivery method
• Complications During Birth:

  • Placenta Previa can cause bleeding and may require a C-section
  • Episiotomy is a surgical incision to prevent tearing during childbirth
  • Breech birth is when the baby is positioned feet or rear first
  • Ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus
  • Gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia are pregnancy complications
• Methods of Birth Control:

  • Barrier methods include condoms, sponge, and diaphragm
  • Hormone methods for females prevent egg release
  • Birth control options include implants and intrauterine devices
  • Permanent options like vasectomy and tubal ligation are available
  • Emergency contraception like Plan B must be taken within 72 hours
  • Abortion is legal in the U.S. and involves removing the fetus from the uterus