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The reproductive system

is necessary for the


production of new living
organisms. The ability to
reproduce is a
basic characteristic of
life.
The primary function of
the reproductive system
is to produce male and
female sex cells and to
ensure the growth and
development of offspring.
Reproductive organs are considered to be
either primary or secondary organs. The
primary reproductive organs are
the gonads (ovaries and testes), which are
responsible for gamete (sperm and egg cell)
and hormone production.
The other reproductive
structures and organs are
considered secondary
reproductive structures.
Secondary organs aid in the
growth and maturation of
gametes and developing
offspring.
Muscular internal organ
that houses and nurtures
female gametes
after fertilization. Also
called the womb, the
uterus is where a
developing fetus resides
during pregnancy.
The uterus is
supported and held in
position by a number
of ligaments. Trauma,
disease, or multiple
pregnancies can weaken
these ligaments and
result in abnormal
positioning.
The uterus wall has 3
layers: the outside
layer called the
perimetrium, the muscular
inside layer called the
myometrium, and the
mucous membrane lining
the uterus called the
endometrium.
Uterine tubes which
transport egg cells
from the ovaries to
the uterus.
Fertilization
typically occurs in
these tubes.
Tube widens to form the End of tube is
ampulla called the
infundibulum
The isthmus is
the portion that
connects to
uterus
Fimbria are the finger-like
projections around the Opening is
opening that trap the egg as called the
it leaves the ovary ostium
The fallopian tube is 4-6 inches long. The egg,
released from the ovary, is captured by the
fimbria and brought into the fallopian tube. The
egg is moved along inside the tube by muscular
contractions and the waving action of cilia.
Female primary
reproductive
structures that
produce gametes
and sex
hormones. There
is one ovary on
each side of the
uterus.
Once every 21 days, one follicle in one
ovary ripens. This mature follicle is a
grafian (GRAW fee un) follicle. The
follicle ruptures in response to
hormones from the pituitary gland,
releasing the ovum/egg a process called
ovulation.
After the follicle
ruptures, it becomes a
mass of yellow cells
called the corpus luteum.
This is a temporary,
progesterone-producing
structure.
Is the sensitive sexual
organ located in front
of the vaginal opening.
It contains thousands
of sensory nerve
endings and responds to
sexual stimulation.
Fibrous, muscular
canal leading from
the cervix (opening
of the uterus) to the
external portion of
the genital canal.
Main organ involved in
sexual intercourse. This
organ is composed of
erectile tissue, connective
tissue, and skin. The
urethra extends through the
length of the penis,
allowing urine and sperm to
pass.
Male primary
reproductive
structures that
produce male
gametes (sperm) and
sex hormones.
External pouch of skin that
contains the testes. Because
the scrotum is located outside
of the abdomen, it can reach
temperatures that are lower
than that of internal body
structures. Lower temperatures
are necessary for proper sperm
development.
System of ducts that
receive immature
sperm from the
testes. Its function
is to develop
immature sperm and to
house mature sperm.
Fibrous, muscular tubes
that are continuous
with the epididymis and
provide a pathway for
sperm to travel from
the epididymis to the
urethra
Tube that extends from the
urinary bladder through the
penis. This canal allows for
the excretion of reproductive
fluids (semen) and urine from
the body. Sphincters prevent
urine from entering the
urethra while semen is
passing through.
Glands that produce fluid
to nurture and provide
energy for sperm cells.
Tubes leading from the
seminal vesicles join the
ductus deferens to form
the ejaculatory duct.
Tube that extends from the
urinary bladder through the
penis. This canal allows for
the excretion of reproductive
fluids (semen) and urine from
the body. Sphincters prevent
urine from entering the
urethra while semen is
passing through.
Gland that produces
a milky, alkaline
fluid which increases
sperm motility. The
contents of the
prostate empty into
the urethra.
is a tube that carries
urine from the kidney
to the urinary bladder.
There are two ureters, one
attached to each
kidney. The upper half
of the ureter is located
in the abdomen
and the lower half is
located in the pelvic area.
is any tissue that is
capable of stiffening or
engorging with blood. During
sexual arousal,
sexual erectile
tissue experiences increased
blood flow and becomes
engorged with blood,
enlargement and/or
stiffening
The reproductive system
can be impacted by a
number of diseases and
disorders. This
includes cancer that may
develop in reproductive
organs such as the uterus,
ovaries, testicles, or
prostate.
Disorders of the female reproductive system
include:
•Endometriosis (endometrial tissue develops
outside of the uterus)
•Ovarian cysts,
uterine polyps, and
•Prolapse of the uterus. Disorders of the male
reproductive system include testicular torsion
(twisting of the testes),
•Hypogonadism (testicular under-activity
resulting in low testosterone production),
enlarged prostate gland,
•Hydrocele (swelling in the scrotum), and
inflammation of the epididymis.
Disorders of the male reproductive
system include:
•Testicular torsion (twisting of
the testes)
•Hypogonadism (testicular under-
activity resulting in low
testosterone production)
•Enlarged prostate gland
• Hydrocele (swelling in the
scrotum), and inflammation of the
epididymis.
The production of sperm
cells is known
as spermatogenesis.
This process occurs
continuously and takes
place within the male
testes. Hundreds of
millions of sperm must
be released in order
for fertilization to
take place.
Ogenesis (ovum
development) occurs in the
female ovaries. It
is the differentiation of
the ovum (egg cell) into a
cell competent to further
develop when fertilized.
It is developed from the
primary oocyte by
maturation.

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