Human Reproductive Systems, Menstrual Cycle, and Development Study Guide (copy) (copy)

Female Reproductive System

Produces ova (eggs) and supports the development of offspring throughout pregnancy.

Ovary

Primary female reproductive organ containing thousands of undeveloped ova.

Fallopian Tube

The canal through which the released ova travels to reach the uterus; typically the site of fertilization.

Uterus

Muscular organ where a fertilized egg implants and develops into a fetus.

Endometrium

Specialized inner lining of the uterus that nourishes a potential embryo or sheds during menstruation.

Cervix

Narrow neck connecting the bottom of the uterus to the top of the vagina.

Vagina

Elastic, muscular tube connecting the cervix to the outside of the female body.

Menstrual Cycle

A repeating series of biological changes in the female body preparing the reproductive system for pregnancy.

Average Menstrual Cycle Length

Typically around 28 days.

Ovulation

Release of a mature ova from the ovary into the fallopian tube, occurring around day 14 of the menstrual cycle.

Fertilization

Process occurring in the fallopian tube where a sperm cell meets and fuses with a released ova.

Zygote

The single-celled fertilized egg that results from the fusion of sperm and egg.

Blastocyst

The multi-celled structure that develops from the zygote on its way to implantation in the uterus.

Implantation

The process of the blastocyst embedding into the thickened endometrium of the uterus.

Testes

The male reproductive organs that produce sperm cells and testosterone.

Scrotum

Pouch of skin containing the testes, regulating their temperature for sperm viability.

Prostate Gland

A gland that secretes fluid into semen to nourish and protect sperm.

Epididymis

Coiled structure atop each testis where sperm cells mature and are stored.

Urethra

Tube that transports urine and semen out of the male body.

Semen

Fluid containing sperm and secretions from seminal vesicles and prostate gland.

Stages of Labour

The phases of childbirth: Stage 1 (Latent and Active Phase), Stage 2 (Delivery of the Baby), and Stage 3 (Delivery of the Placenta).

Placenta

Temporary organ formed during pregnancy that facilitates nutrient transfer from mother to fetus.

Testosterone

Primary male sex hormone responsible for male reproductive development and secondary sexual characteristics.