Reproductive System

The Male Reproductive System includes:

• External Genitalia:

  • Scrotum: Houses the testes.

  • Penis: Composed of root, shaft, and glans; contains erectile tissue (corpus cavernosa and corpus spongiosum) for sexual function.

• Testes: Descend from the abdomen, connected to the spermatic cord. Testes are divided into lobules containing seminiferous tubules for sperm production, overseen by Leydig (interstitial) and Sertoli cells.

  • Spermatogenesis: Involves mitosis and meiosis, resulting in sperm production.

  • Spermiogenesis: Maturation of spermatids into spermatozoa occurs over nine weeks.

• Reproductive Tract:

  • Epididymis: Stores and matures sperm.

  • Vas Deferens: Transports sperm during ejaculation.

  • Urethra: Common passage for urine and semen.

• Accessory Glands:

  • Seminal Vesicles: Produce fluid comprising 60% of semen volume.

  • Prostate Gland: Contributes 20-30% of semen volume.

  • Bulbourethral Glands: Secrete mucus for lubrication.

• Semen: Comprises spermatozoa and seminal fluid.

• Hormones: FSH and LH regulate spermatogenesis and testosterone production.

The Female Reproductive System includes:

• Ovaries: Produce oocytes and hormones (estrogen, progesterone). Oogenesis begins before birth, accelerates at puberty, and concludes at menopause.

• Uterine Tubes (Fallopian): Sites for fertilization; transport oocyte to the uterus.

• Uterus: A pear-shaped organ divided into body (fundus and isthmus) and cervix, supporting embryo development and expelling fetus at birth.

• Uterine Cycle: Composed of menses, proliferative, and secretory phases; regulated by FSH and LH, with cyclic changes in hormone levels.

• Vagina: Elastic tube facilitating menstrual flow, intercourse, and birth.

• External Genitalia: Includes vulva, labia, and clitoris.

• Mammary Glands: Produce milk, regulated by prolactin and oxytocin during lactation.

• Hormonal Regulation: Complex interplay of FSH and LH supports oocyte maturation and prepares uterus for implantation.