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.