Reproductive System Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards for the reproductive system lecture.

Asexual Reproduction

Reproduction by mitosis.

Sexual reproduction

Reproduction occurs in gonads (ovaries & testes) and produces 4 gamete cells (oocytes & sperm-both are haploid meaning half the needed genetic material)

Sperm

Male gametes, containing 23 chromosomes.

Copulation

The process of delivering the male gamete to the female gamete

Fertilization

Fusion of sperm and oocyte.

Zygote

The cell formed by the fusion of sperm and oocyte, containing 46 chromosomes.

Scrotum

Muscular sack holding the testicles.

Leydig (interstitial) cells

Produce testosterone.

Sertoli (sustentacular) cells

Assist in meiosis.

Germ cells

The developing sperm cells.

Epididymis

Where sperm maturation occurs.

Semen

Fluid that is ejaculated.

Seminal vesicles

Secrete fructose – used by sperm mitochondria for energy

Prostate gland

Alkaline secretion that neutralizes urethral and vaginal acids & secretes coagulants to allow sperm to stick/stay in the female, as well as anticoagulants to allow sperm to swim towards oocytes

Bulbourethral (Cowper’s) glands

Thick fluid that lubricates urethra and vagina.

Glans penis

Tip of the penis with high concentration of nerve endings.

Vulva (pudendum)

External reproductive structures.

Mons pubis

Fat pad above the vaginal opening.

Clitoris

Sexual sensation, erectile tissue similar to penis, above urethral opening

Bartholin’s glands

Similar to Cowper’s glands, secrete lubricating fluid.

Rugae

Folds similar to rugae in the stomach and urinary bladder

Uterus

Muscular organ, supports growing embryo.

Endometrium

Innermost, epithelial layer of the uterine wall; where embryo implants.

Broad ligament

Holds the uterus in place

Suspensory ligament

Holds the oviducts (uterine or Fallopian tubules) in place

Ovarian ligament

Holds the ovaries in place

Fallopian tubes

aka uterine tubes

Fimbriae

Finger like edges of infundibulum – sort of “catch” the egg released from the ovary

Areola

Pigmented area by nipple