human reproduction

• What is the concept of homeostasis in reproduction?


  It refers to the creation of human diversity and maintenance of health in terms of reproduction and conception.
• How does homeostasis relate to development?


  It involves controlling the internal environment to meet the needs of the developing human throughout their lifespan.
• What hormones are released by the hypothalamus?


  Thyrotropin, corticotropin, growth hormone and prolactin

  
• What are the main functions of the endocrine system?


  • Hormones act as chemical messengers
  • Influence growth and maturity
  • Regulate reproductive functions
• What hormones does the anterior pituitary release that stimulate the ovaries and testes?


  Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH).
• What is the function of oxytocin in the endocrine system?


  It stimulates the ovaries and testes.
• What is the role of prolactin in the endocrine system?


  It stimulates the mammary glands.
• What are the key aspects of sex differentiation?


  • Female gamete (ovum) fertilized by male gamete (spermatozoon)
  • 22 autosomes and 1 sex chromosome
  • Hormonal influence on sex organ development
  • Development starts from about 5-6 weeks

  
• How many chromosome pairs does each human cell have?


  Each cell has 23 chromosome pairs, totaling 46 chromosomes.
• What distinguishes the 23rd pair of chromosomes in humans?


  It consists of sex chromosomes, X and Y, which differ between males and females.
• What are the functions of the testes?


  • Produce sperm (gametes)
  • Secrete hormones (testosterone)
  • Support spermatogenesis
• What is the role of Sertoli cells in the testes?


  They support maturation, provide nutrients, and remove waste products from sperm.
• What are the components of the spermatic ducts and accessory glands?


  • Epididymis
  • Ductus (vas) deferens
  • Seminal vesicles
  • Prostate gland
  • Bulbourethral glands
• What is the function of the epididymis?


  It stores and matures immature spermatozoa.
• What is the role of the vas deferens in the male reproductive system?


  It transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct.
• What is the function of seminal vesicles?


  They produce fluid that forms semen and is stimulated by testosterone.
• What are the main components of the female reproductive system?

  • Ovaries and fallopian tubes
  • Uterus
  • Vagina
  • Vulva
  • Labia
• What is the function of the uterus?


  It has a smooth muscle structure and a glandular endometrium lining.
• What are Bartholin’s glands responsible for?


  They provide lubrication through mucous secretions.
• What regulates female sex function?


  • Monthly cycling changes
  • Pituitary hormones (FSH, LH)
  • Ovarian hormones (oestrogen)
  • Endometrial lining changes
• How do male and female reproductive systems develop from the same fetal structures?


  They originate from the same embryonic tissues but differentiate based on hormonal influences.

  
• What hormones are essential for the male endocrine system?


  The male endocrine system relies on LH, FSH, and testosterone.
• What hormones are essential for the female endocrine system?


  The female endocrine system relies on LH, FSH, estrogen, and progesterone.
• What is the role of inhibin in the endocrine system?


  Inhibin inhibits FSH via negative feedback loops.
• What are the key nutrients exchanged between mother and child during pregnancy?


  Nutrients, oxygen, and protection are exchanged between mother and child.
• What hormones are involved in the endocrine changes during pregnancy?


  Key hormones include progesterone, estrogen, hCG, prolactin, and human placental lactogen (hPL).
• How does the immune system change during pregnancy?


  The immune system becomes more susceptible, but placental protection is provided.
• What cardiovascular adaptations occur during pregnancy?


  Cardiovascular adaptations include increased blood volume, cardiac output, and heart rate.
• Why is pregnancy considered a critical period?


  Pregnancy is a critical period due to the huge stress on the mother and the need for lifestyle changes.
• What is the role of oxytocin during childbirth?


  Oxytocin is important for sex, giving birth, and lactation.
• What is a positive feedback loop in the context of childbirth?


  A positive feedback loop, such as oxytocin in labor, enhances the process of childbirth.
• What hormones affect lactation?


  Hormones affecting lactation include progesterone, estrogen, prolactin, and oxytocin.
• How does fetal circulation differ from postnatal circulation?


  Fetal circulation includes shunts and holes that should close after birth.
• What are the six stages of lifespan development?


  The stages are infancy, childhood, adolescence, early adulthood, middle age, and older age.
• What significant growth occurs by age 2?


  By age 2, a child reaches about half of their adult height and their brain is 80% of adult size.
• What triggers puberty?


  Puberty is triggered by hormonal changes leading to secondary sex characteristics.
• What are the physical changes associated with aging in females?


  Physical changes include menopause and an increased risk of osteoporosis.
• What are the physical changes associated with aging in males?


  Males experience a reduction in sperm volume and quality, along with risks of benign prostatic hyperplasia.