In-Depth Study Notes on Male and Female Reproductive Anatomy

Testes: The male reproductive organs that produce sperm and testosterone.
Epididymis: A coiled tube located on the superior surface of each testis where sperm undergoes maturation.
Scrotum: The pouch that contains the testes and epididymis, regulating temperature for sperm production.
Ductus Deferens: A tube that transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct during ejaculation.
Prostate Gland: Situated behind the bladder; contributes approximately 70% of the volume of semen.
Seminal Vesicles: Glands that contribute about 30% of the semen volume; they join with the ductus deferens to form the ejaculatory duct.
Urethra: A continuous tube that transports urine and semen, divided into three parts:
- Prostatic Urethra: Passes through the prostate gland.
- Membranous Urethra: Travels through the pelvic floor muscles.
- Spongy Urethra: Runs through the penis.
Erectile Tissues in the Penis:
- Corpus Spongiosum: The tissue surrounding the spongy urethra; prevents collapse during erection.
- Corpus Cavernosum: Two cylindrical tissues on either side of the penis that engorge with blood during erection.

Uterus: Composed of three layers:
- Parametrium: The outermost layer.
- Myometrium: The smooth muscle layer responsible for contractions during labor.
- Endometrium: The innermost, highly vascularized mucosal lining, consisting of:
- Stratum Basalis: Remains during menstruation to regenerate the stratum functionalis.
- Stratum Functionalis: Sloughs off during menstruation; implantation of the zygote occurs here.
Cervix: The passage connecting the vagina and uterus, containing openings known as the external and internal os.
Vagina: A muscular tube that facilitates sexual intercourse and childbirth.
Clitoris: A sensitive structure composed of erectile tissue, analogous to the penis in males.
Bartholin Glands: Located near the vaginal opening, secrete mucus for lubrication during intercourse.
Ovaries: Produce eggs and hormones; each ovulates once a month. Their tubes (uterine/fallopian tubes) are responsible for transporting the egg to the uterus.

Hormonal Function: The reproductive system is regulated by hormones to manage sexual development and reproductive functions.
Breast Anatomy: Part of the female reproductive system:
- Areola: Pigmented area surrounding the nipple, containing glands.
- Mammary Glands: Produce milk, responsive to hormonal changes during pregnancy.
Labial Structures: Although not extensively covered, they include the labia majora and minora surrounding the vaginal opening.
Breast Cancer: Often occurs in the ducts of the mammary glands, known as ductal carcinoma.

Sperm Transportation: Sperm travel a long distance through the female reproductive tract to reach the egg, requiring a large quantity for successful fertilization.
Ectopic Pregnancy: Occurs if fertilization happens outside the uterus, often requiring medical intervention.
UTI Vulnerability: Females are more susceptible to urinary tract infections due to shorter urethra length.

Familiarize yourself with anatomical models both for labeling and identifying structures.
Understand the functions and locations of each component of the reproductive systems for both males and females.
Note differentiation between the hormones and their roles in sexual maturation and reproduction.
Revise on the processes of ejaculation and implantation for a comprehensive understanding of reproduction.