Reproductive System Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the male and female reproductive systems, their functions, structures, hormonal regulation, and reproductive cycles.

What is the primary function of the male reproductive system?

To produce gametes (sperm) and deliver them to the female reproductive tract.

What is the primary function of the female reproductive system?

To produce gametes (ova), receive gametes from males, and support the development of a child.

What are the primary sex organs for males?

Testes.

What are the primary sex organs for females?

Ovaries.

What is the pathway of sperm from the testes to the outside of the body?

Sperm travels from the seminiferous tubules to the rete testis, then to the epididymis, ductus deferens, ejaculatory duct, and finally the urethra.

What is the function of the scrotum?

To keep the testes about 3°C cooler than core body temperature for viable sperm production.

What two muscles facilitate the movement of the testes?

Dartos muscle and cremaster muscle.

What is the structure of the penis?

Consists of three main regions: root, shaft, and glans penis, and contains erectile tissue including the corpus spongiosum and corpora cavernosa.

What are the three parts of the male duct system?

Epididymis, ductus deferens, and urethra.

Name the three accessory glands in males and their primary secretions.

Seminal vesicles (fructose, prostaglandins), prostate (citrate, enzymes), and bulbourethral glands (mucus).

What is the composition of semen?

Semen includes sperm, fructose, prostaglandins, ATP, clotting factors, and alkalinity to neutralize acidity.

What is the process of erection?

Erection is caused by engorgement of erectile tissue with blood due to sexual arousal.

What are the differences between spermatogenesis and oogenesis?

Spermatogenesis produces four sperm from each meiotic division while oogenesis produces one functional egg and polar bodies, takes much longer and is limited to females.

What is the brain-testicular axis?

A hormonal regulation system involving the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, and testes that regulates spermatogenesis and testosterone production.

What effects does testosterone have on the male body?

It promotes spermatogenesis, development of male reproductive organs, secondary sexual characteristics, and regulates libido.

What is menopause?

The cessation of ovulation and menstruation in women, marked by decreased estrogen levels leading to various physical and emotional symptoms.

What is the hormonal regulation of the ovarian cycle during the follicular phase?

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), promoting follicle growth.

Describe the structure of the uterine tubes.

They consist of the infundibulum, ampulla, and isthmus, with cilia that help transport the ovulated oocyte toward the uterus.

Describe the role of estrogen in female development.

Estrogen promotes the growth of ovarian follicles, develops reproductive organs, and influences secondary sexual characteristics such as breast development.