Human Reproductive Systems, Hormones, and Fertility Treatments

What are gametes in humans?

Haploid cells produced by meiosis, specifically sperm and egg cells.

What is fertilisation?

The fusion of haploid gametes to produce a diploid zygote with the full number of chromosomes.

What are the main components of the female reproductive system?

Ovaries, Fallopian tubes, Uterus, Cervix, and Vagina.

What is the function of the ovaries?

The site of production of female gametes (egg cells or ova).

What role do Fallopian tubes play in reproduction?

They connect the ovaries with the uterus.

What is the function of the uterus?

The organ where the foetus develops following fertilisation.

What is the cervix's role during pregnancy?

It helps retain the developing foetus within the uterus and acts as a barrier to pathogens.

What is the function of the vagina?

It allows for the loss of menstrual blood, receives sperm during sexual intercourse, and forms the birth canal.

What are the main components of the male reproductive system?

Penis, Urethra, Testes, Scrotum, Vas deferens, Seminal vesicles, and Prostate.

What is the role of the penis in reproduction?

It allows for insertion into the vagina during sexual intercourse and encloses the urethra.

What is the function of the urethra in males?

It transports semen during ejaculation and connects to the bladder to provide an exit for urine.

What is the purpose of the testes?

The site of production of male gametes (sperm).

What is the scrotum's function?

It holds the testes outside the body to maintain a lower temperature for normal sperm development.

What do seminal vesicles produce?

A fluid rich in fructose that nourishes the sperm.

What is the role of the prostate gland?

It contributes a fluid that nourishes sperm and surrounds the urethra.

What is the significance of sexual reproduction?

It provides a mechanism for the survival of the species by producing offspring through genetic variation.

What are the two functions of the female reproductive system?

To produce egg cells and to protect and nourish an offspring until birth.

What is the role of the placenta?

It allows for the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between the mother and the developing embryo.

What regulates the menstrual cycle?

Hormones produced by the pituitary, ovaries, and uterus.

What happens if fertilisation does not occur?

The corpus luteum breaks down, leading to a decrease in progesterone and oestrogen, triggering menstruation.

What is the typical duration of the menstrual cycle?

About 28 days, but it can be longer or shorter and often irregular.

What is negative feedback in the context of the menstrual cycle?

A mechanism where hormones regulate each other's release to maintain balance in the cycle.

What triggers menstruation?

The breakdown of the corpus luteum and decrease in progesterone and oestrogen levels.

What is the function of FSH in the menstrual cycle?

It stimulates the release of oestrogen.

What does oestrogen do in the menstrual cycle?

It inhibits FSH release and causes a surge in LH.

What hormone is released from the pituitary to stimulate follicle growth in the ovary?

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

What hormone surge occurs just before day 14 of the menstrual cycle?

Luteinizing hormone (LH) surge

What is the role of oestrogen in the menstrual cycle?

Inhibits FSH release and stimulates growth and repair of the uterus lining.

What structure produces progesterone after ovulation?

Corpus luteum

What effect does rising progesterone levels have on LH and FSH?

Inhibits their release by the pituitary gland.

What are the primary sex hormones in females and males?

Oestrogen in females and testosterone in males.

What is puberty?

The stage where a child's body develops into an adult body.

What hormone is released by the hypothalamus to stimulate the pituitary during puberty?

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)

What are some secondary sexual characteristics developed in males during puberty?

Facial hair and increased muscle mass.

What are some secondary sexual characteristics developed in females during puberty?

Widening of hips and breast development.

What condition is characterized by endometrial-like cells growing outside the uterus?

Endometriosis

What are some theories about the causes of endometriosis?

Genetics, immune system malfunction, and retrograde menstruation.

What is a major symptom of endometriosis?

Pelvic pain, especially during menstruation.

What diagnostic procedure can visualize organs in the pelvic cavity for endometriosis?

Transvaginal ultrasound

What surgical procedure is used for accurate diagnosis of endometriosis?

Laparoscopy

What are common treatments for endometriosis?

Pain relief medication, hormone-based treatments, and laparoscopy surgery.

What is the role of FSH in IVF treatment?

Used in ovarian hyperstimulation to produce more eggs.

What factors affect the number of embryos transferred during IVF?

Mother's age, IVF cycle, and quality of embryos.

What is a potential negative impact of infertility on mental health?

Increased risk of depression and anxiety disorders.

What is the purpose of hormone-based treatments in endometriosis?

To make periods lighter and shorter, decreasing endometrial tissue growth.

What is the impact of severe pelvic pain in endometriosis?

It can prevent normal daily activities.

What is the significance of negative feedback in hormonal regulation?

Helps explain the shape of hormone concentration curves.

What are the symptoms of endometriosis besides pelvic pain?

Nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and very heavy periods.

What is the main goal of treatments for endometriosis?

Relief of symptoms, as there is no real cure.

What happens to the endometrial cells during retrograde menstruation?

They flow backwards through the Fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity.

What is the effect of oral contraceptives on endometriosis?

They help control the condition more effectively.

What is the role of progesterone in the menstrual cycle?

Maintains the lining of the uterus for a fertilized egg.