Structure and Function of Reproductive Anatomy

Structure and Function of Reproductive Anatomy

The Male Reproductive System

Testes

• Located in the scrotum which keeps them cooler than body temperature, essential for sperm production.
• Produces sperm and the hormone testosterone.

Sperm Duct (Vas Deferens)

• A tube that carries sperm from the testes to the urethra.

Prostate Gland

• Adds fluid to the sperm to make semen.
• This fluid nourishes the sperm and helps them to swim.

Urethra

• The tube that carries semen and urine out of the body.

Penis

• Contains erectile tissue which fills with blood causing an erection.
• During sexual intercourse, semen is ejaculated via the urethra.

The Female Reproductive System

Ovaries

• Produce ova (eggs) and the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Fallopian Tubes (Oviducts)

• Carry the egg from the ovaries to the uterus.
• Fertilisation typically occurs here when a sperm meets the released egg.

Uterus (Womb)

• The site where the fertilised egg develops into a foetus.
• Lined with a thick layer of tissue (the endometrium) which provides the fertilised egg with nutrients.

Cervix

• The neck of the uterus, it produces mucus which changes in consistency during the menstrual cycle.
• During labour, it dilates to allow the passage of the baby.

Vagina

• The canal leading from the cervix to the outside of the woman’s body.
• It also serves as the birth canal.

Menstrual Cycle

• The regular cycle of changes in the female reproductive system.
• Involves the maturing and release of an egg (ovulation), and preparation of the uterus for implantation.
• If no fertilisation occurs, the endometrium sheds (the menstrual period) and the cycle restarts.

Sexual Reproduction and Fertilisation

• In humans, sexual reproduction starts when a sperm fertilises an egg during sexual intercourse.
• The fertilised egg, now called a zygote, travels down the Fallopian tube and implants in the prepared uterus to develop into a baby.