Human Reproduction Exam 2

What are the primary functions of the ovaries?

House follicles that contain ova (eggs) and produce estrogen and progesterone.

What is the function of the fallopian tubes?

Site of fertilization and transport the ovum to the uterus.

What are the functions of the uterus?

Supports implantation and fetal development; the endometrium thickens to prepare for pregnancy.

What is the role of the cervix and cervical mucus?

Helps sperm entry into the uterus and protects against infections.

What is the function of the vagina?

Serves as the birth canal and site for sperm deposition.

What is the function of the testes?

Produce sperm (spermatogenesis) and produce testosterone.

What is the function of the epididymis?

Stores and matures sperm.

What is the function of the vas deferens?

Transports sperm from the epididymis to the urethra.

What is the function of the seminal vesicles?

Secretes fructose-rich fluid for sperm energy.

What is the function of the prostate gland?

Produces alkaline fluid to enhance sperm motility.

What is the function of the Cowper’s (bulbourethral) glands?

Secretes mucus to neutralize acidity in the urethra.

What is the function of the corpus cavernosa and corpus spongiosum?

Cavernosa facilitates erection by filling with blood; spongiosum keeps the urethra open during erection.

What hormone does the hypothalamus release to regulate reproductive function?

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).

What hormones does the anterior pituitary release in response to GnRH?

Luteinizing hormone (LH) and Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

What is the function of FSH in males?

Stimulates Sertoli cells for sperm production.

What is the function of LH in males?

Stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone.

What is the function of FSH in females?

Stimulates follicle growth and estrogen production.

What is the function of LH in females?

Triggers ovulation and supports corpus luteum formation and progesterone secretion.

What is the role of granulosa cells?

Found in ovarian follicles; respond to FSH and produce estrogen.

What is the role of theca cells?

Respond to LH and produce androgens, which are converted to estrogen.

What are the three major phases of the menstrual cycle?

Follicular Phase, Ovulation, Luteal Phase.

What happens if fertilization does not occur?

The corpus luteum degenerates, hormone levels drop, and the endometrium sheds (menstruation).

What is the importance of pulsatile LH release?

Maintains normal reproductive hormone production and prevents desensitization of receptors.

What happens to most follicles?

Undergo atresia (degeneration) before ovulation.

What are the major characteristics of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?

Irregular or absent ovulation, increased androgens, multiple small cysts in ovaries, insulin resistance.

What are the major characteristics of endometriosis?

Endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation, and infertility.

What are the four phases of the human sexual response cycle?

Excitement, Plateau, Orgasm, Resolution.

What neurotransmitters are involved in sexual response?

Dopamine and nitric oxide in the Excitement Phase; Oxytocin in the Orgasm Phase.

What substances can suppress testosterone production?

Opioids, Alcohol, Anabolic steroids.

What triggers puberty?

GnRH release, leading to LH and FSH production.

What is the Tanner scale used for?

Measures stages of sexual maturity in males and females.

What is menarche?

The first menstrual period, indicating reproductive maturity.

What is an antrum?

A fluid-filled cavity in a developing ovarian follicle.

What are polar bodies?

Small, non-functional cells produced during oocyte meiosis.

What is the function of the endometrium?

Supports implantation and pregnancy.

What does oxytocin do?

Involved in childbirth, orgasm, and bonding.

What is the primary estrogen that regulates the menstrual cycle?

Estradiol.

What is the function of cervical mucus?

Changes consistency to aid sperm transport and block pathogens.