Deck

• Reproductive system


  The major function is to ensure survival of the species
• Functions of the reproductive system


  • Produce egg and sperm cells
  • Transport and sustain these cells
  • Nurture the developing offspring
  • Produce hormones

  
• Primary reproductive organs


  Gonads (ovaries and testes) - responsible for producing gametes and hormones
• Secondary/accessory reproductive organs


  Organs, ducts, and glands that transport and sustain gametes and nurture the developing offspring
• Male reproductive system


  • Consists of testes, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate, bulbourethral glands, and penis

  
• Testes


  • Produce sperm in seminiferous tubules
  • Testis temperature is maintained about 2°C below core body temperature by the scrotum
• Vas deferens


  • Extends around and behind the urinary bladder, joins with duct from seminal vesicle to form ejaculatory duct
  • Ejaculatory ducts open into the urethra
• Accessory glands


  • Seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands produce secretions that combine with sperm to form semen

  
• Penis


  • Contains urethra and three cylinders of spongy erectile tissue
  • Glans penis is more sensitive to stimulation
• Hormonal control of male reproductive system

  1. Testosterone regulates GnRH, FSH, and LH through negative feedback

  2. Inhibin from Sertoli cells reduces FSH secretion
• Female reproductive system


  • Includes ovaries, Fallopian tubes, uterus, vagina, accessory glands, and external genital organs

  
• Ovaries


  • Packed with follicles, each containing an oocyte (partially developed egg) surrounded by support cells
• Oviducts and uterus


  • Oviducts convey egg from ovary to uterus
  • Uterus is a thick, muscular organ that can expand during pregnancy
• Vagina and vulva


  • Vagina is the site of sperm deposition and birth canal
  • Vulva is the external female genitalia

  
• Hormonal control of female reproductive system

  1. Ovarian cycle (follicular, ovulatory, luteal phases)

  2. Uterine cycle (menstrual, proliferative, secretory phases)

  3. Menopause marked by decreased ovarian hormones and increased FSH/LH