Reproductive System Terminology and Chart Notation

Male Reproductive System

Terminology

  • Semen: The fluid containing sperm that is ejaculated from the male reproductive tract.

  • Kryptorkidism (Cryptorchidism): A condition in which one or both testicles fail to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum.

  • Vasobastotomy (Vasovasostomy): A surgical procedure to reverse a vasectomy by reconnecting the vas deferens.

  • Erectile Dysfunction: The inability to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual intercourse.

  • Hydrocele: A fluid-filled sac surrounding a testicle that causes swelling in the scrotum.

  • Circumcision: The surgical removal of the foreskin from the penis.

  • Prostatectomy: Surgical removal of all or part of the prostate gland.

  • Testicular Torsion: Twisting of the spermatic cord, which cuts off blood supply to the testicle.

  • Prostate Gland: A gland surrounding the urethra below the bladder in males, responsible for secreting a fluid that is a component of semen.

  • The flagellum: A whip-like appendage on a sperm cell that enables it to move.

  • Testosterone: The primary male sex hormone, produced in the testes.

  • Scrotum: The external pouch of skin containing the testicles.

  • Vas Deferens: The duct that conveys sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct.

  • Spermatogen (Spermatogonium): A male germ cell that gives rise to spermatocytes.

  • Testes (Testicles): The male reproductive glands that produce sperm and testosterone.

  • Epidermis: The outer layer of tissue of the skin.

  • Vasectomy: A surgical procedure for male sterilization involving the cutting and sealing of the vas deferens.

Female Reproductive System

Terminology

  • Fimbriae: Finger-like projections at the end of the fallopian tubes that help to capture the egg released from the ovary.

  • Preeclampsia: A pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, often the kidneys.

  • Ectopic Pregnancy: A pregnancy in which the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube.

  • Placenta Previa: A condition in which the placenta blocks the cervix during pregnancy.

  • Endometriosis: A condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus.

  • Abruptio Placenta: Premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall.

  • Placenta: An organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, providing oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby and removing waste products.

  • Mastectomy: Surgical removal of one or both breasts, typically to treat breast cancer.

  • Amenorrhea: The absence of menstruation.

  • Ovulation: The release of an egg from the ovary.

  • Menarche: The first occurrence of menstruation.

  • Gynecology: The branch of medicine dealing with the functions and diseases specific to women and girls, especially those affecting the reproductive system.

  • Menstruation: The periodic discharge of blood and tissue from the uterus.

  • Embryo: An early stage of development in a human or animal.

  • Cesarean Section: A surgical procedure in which a baby is delivered through incisions in the mother's abdomen and uterus.

  • Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus.

  • In Vitro Fertilization: A process of fertilization where an egg is combined with sperm outside the body.

  • Genital Warts: Small, fleshy growths on the genitals caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

  • Syphilis: A bacterial infection, typically sexually transmitted.

  • Hypospadias: A birth defect in males in which the opening of the urethra is on the underside of the penis instead of at the tip.

  • Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted bacterial infection that, if left untreated, can cause infertility.

  • Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Enlargement of the prostate gland, common in older men.

  • Episiotomy: A surgical cut made at the opening of the vagina during childbirth, to aid a difficult delivery and prevent rupture of tissues.

  • Gynecomastia: Enlargement of breast tissue in males.

  • Labia: The inner and outer folds of the vulva.

  • Endometrium: The mucous membrane lining the uterus, which thickens during the menstrual cycle and is shed during menstruation.

  • Vagina: The muscular tube leading from the external genitals to the cervix.

  • Ovaries: The female reproductive glands that produce eggs and hormones.

  • Fallopian Tubes: The tubes through which eggs travel from the ovaries to the uterus.