Introduction to the Reproductive System Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering the anatomical structures, hormones, control mechanisms, and physiological processes of the male and female reproductive systems.

Ovaries

Female reproductive structures that store ova, each contained in a follicle, and produce the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Fallopian tubes

Structures in the female reproductive system with a ciliated lining that propels the ovum into the uterus.

Uterus

A muscular organ in the female reproductive system containing an inner layer called the endometrium, which allows for implantation of a fertilized egg.

Estrogens

Hormones including estradiol, estrone, and estriol that enter cells, bind to receptors within the cytoplasm, and promote messenger RNA activity.

Progesterone

A hormone released into circulation after ovulation that supports the early development of a fetus.

GnRH (Gonadotropin-releasing hormone)

A hormone released by the hypothalamus starting at puberty that stimulates the anterior pituitary to release FSH and LH.

FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone)

An anterior pituitary hormone that stimulates ovarian follicle development in females and sperm production in males.

LH (Luteinizing hormone)

An anterior pituitary hormone whose surge around day 14 triggers ovulation in females, and stimulates Leydig cells in males.

Menstrual Cycle

A recurring reproductive cycle triggered by GnRH, FSH, and LH, characterized by 14 days of follicle maturation and estrogen release, an LH surge triggering ovulation, and progesterone secretion by the corpus luteum.

Placenta

An interface between fetal cells and the uterus that secretes chorionic gonadotropin and maintains high levels of estrogens and progesterone to support the fetus.

Postpartum period

A 6 to 8 week period following the expulsion of the fetus and placenta, during which body systems return to homeostasis, prolactin promotes milk secretion, and oxytocin enables milk flow.

Menopause

The permanent cessation of menses occurring when ovarian follicles become depleted and the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone.

Seminiferous tubules

Structures within the male testes that continually produce sperm.

Interstitial cells (Leydig cells)

Cells located in the male testes that produce testosterone.

Vas deferens

A duct in the male reproductive system that stores and carries sperm.

Prostate gland

A male reproductive gland that produces enzymes responsible for stimulating sperm maturation.

Testosterone

The male sex hormone responsible for organ growth, vocal cord thickening, hair growth, protein anabolism, bone growth, and increased hematocrit.

Andropause

The gradual age-related atrophy of seminiferous tubules and interstitial cells in males, leading to reduced testosterone levels and reduced sexual activity.

Human chorionic gonadotropin

A hormone produced upon fertilization of an ovum and secreted by the placenta to help maintain pregnancy.

Human Sexual Response

A process initiated by physical and psychological stimulation (parasympathetic activation leading to increased genital blood flow), leading to orgasm (sympathetic activation), followed by a resolution phase.