Reproductive Systems

Male & Female Reproductive Systems

Male Reproductive System

Testes

-Oval shaped glands, suspended in the scrotum

-Produces sperm cells and testosterone

Scrotum

-Skin sac that holds the testes

-Protects the testes and holds the testes “outside” the body, at 2°C lower than body temp.

Epididymis

-Coiled tubule on the outside of the testes but still in the scrotum temporarily

-Stores spermatids until they mature into sperm cells

Vas Deferens

-Muscular tube passing from the epididymis to the urethra

-Transports sperm from the epididymis to the urethra

Urethra

-Tube which runs through the penis

-Transports urine and semen out of the body

Prostate Gland

-Gland found below the bladder, at the point where the urethra begins

-The largest accessory gland produces a nutrient-rich fluid that provides energy for the sperm cells

Cowper’s Gland

-Small pair of glands found below the prostate gland

-Produces mucus that helps with the movement of sperm cells

Seminal Vesicles

-Medium sized pair of glands attached to the end of the vas deferens

-Produces alkaline fluid to neutralise vaginal acids which would kill sperm

Female Reproductive System

Ovaries

-Produces egg cells, secrete the hormones progesterone and oestrogen

Fallopian Tubes

-Transports egg cells from the ovary to the uterus; the site of fertilisation

Uterus

-Houses and protects the embryo and foetus during pregnancy

Endometrium

-Inner lining of the uterus

-Site of implantation and where the placenta forms

Cervix

-Stretches and opens to allow the baby through during childbirth

Vagina

-Receives the penis and semen during sexual intercourse; the birth canal; passage for menstrual blood

Vulva

-Opening to the vagina; covered by two vagina covers called the labia protects the entrance to the vagina