The reproductive system

Male Reproductive System

The system in males responsible for producing sperm and releasing testosterone.

Sperm

Male gametes or reproductive cells that form when certain cells in the male reproductive system divide, containing half the DNA of a regular body cell.

Testosterone

The main sex hormone in males that causes reproductive organ maturation during teen years and aids in sperm production in adulthood.

Penis, Testes, Epididymis

Male reproductive organs including the cylinder-shaped penis, testes producing sperm and testosterone, and the epididymis where sperm mature and are stored.

Female Reproductive System

The system in females consisting of the vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, responsible for egg production, fertilization, and pregnancy.

Menstrual Cycle

A monthly series of changes in the female reproductive system involving egg development, uterine lining thickening, ovulation, and shedding of the endometrium if fertilization does not occur.

Ovulation

The release of a mature egg from the ovary into the fallopian tube, occurring around the midpoint of the menstrual cycle.

Hormonal Contraception

The use of hormones like estrogen and progesterone to prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation or altering the menstrual cycle.

Fertilization

The process where a sperm cell penetrates an egg cell, leading to the formation of a zygote with a complete set of chromosomes.

Implantation

The attachment of a fertilized egg (zygote) to the uterine wall, where it begins to develop into an embryo.

Zygote

The cell formed by the combination of two gametes, containing a full set of chromosomes.

Implantation

The process where the ball of cells fixes itself to the side of the uterus, occurring about a week after fertilization.

Fetus

The developing baby in the later stages of pregnancy, starting to look more like a baby by the 28th week.

Amniotic sac

A membrane filled with amniotic fluid that surrounds and protects the fetus during pregnancy.

Placenta

A spongy mass of blood vessels attached to the mother's uterus, allowing the exchange of oxygen and nutrients between mother and fetus.

Umbilical cord

The tube connecting the fetus to the placenta, containing arteries and a vein for the exchange of substances between mother and fetus.

Childbirth

The process where the baby passes from the uterus, through the vagina, and out of the mother's body, usually starting when the amniotic sac breaks.