Introduction to Reproductive System:
The reproductive system is responsible for producing, maintaining, and transporting reproductive cells (sperms in males and ova in females). It also secretes hormones necessary for sexual development and reproduction.
In humans, the reproductive system differs structurally and functionally between males and females but works together to ensure the continuation of the species.
Male Reproductive System
Main Parts and Their Functions:
Testes
Location: Outside the abdominal cavity within the scrotum.
Function:
- Produce male gametes (sperms).
- Secrete testosterone, the male sex hormone responsible for secondary sexual characteristics (deep voice, body hair, muscle growth, etc.).
Original Notes:
Scrotum
A sac of skin that holds and protects the testes.
Regulates the temperature of the testes for optimal sperm production (slightly lower than body temperature).
Epididymis
A coiled tube on the posterior surface of each testis.
Function: Storage and maturation of sperms.
Vas Deferens
A muscular tube that transports mature sperms from the epididymis to the urethra.
Seminal Vesicles
Glands that secrete a fluid rich in fructose and nutrients, providing energy to sperms.
Prostate Gland
Secretes an alkaline fluid that neutralizes vaginal acidity and enhances sperm motility.
Cowper’s (Bulbourethral) Glands
Secrete mucus that lubricates and neutralizes the urethra before ejaculation.
Penis
Male copulatory organ that delivers sperm into the female reproductive tract.
Functions of the Male Reproductive System
- Production of sperms (spermatogenesis).
- Secretion of male hormones (testosterone).
- Transportation and ejaculation of sperms during copulation.
Female Reproductive System
Main Parts and Their Functions
Ovaries
Location: One on each side of the uterus in the pelvic cavity.
Function:
- Produce ova (female gametes).
- Secrete female sex hormones — estrogen and progesterone.
Fallopian Tubes (Oviducts)
Connect the ovaries to the uterus.
Function:
- Site of fertilization (where sperm meets ovum).
- Transport the fertilized egg (zygote) to the uterus.
Uterus (Womb)
A muscular, pear-shaped organ.
Function:
- Site of implantation and fetal development.
- Contracts during childbirth to expel the baby.
Vagina
Muscular canal extending from the cervix to the external genitalia.
Function:
- Receives the penis during intercourse.
- Serves as the birth canal during delivery.
External Genitalia (Vulva)
Includes labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal opening.
Function: Protection of internal reproductive organs and involvement in sexual stimulation.
Mammary Glands (Breasts)
Function: Secrete milk after childbirth for nourishment of the newborn (lactation).
Menstrual Cycle
A cyclic physiological process occurring in females of reproductive age (average 28 days).
Phases:
- Menstrual Phase (Days 1–5): Shedding of uterine lining (endometrium) with bleeding.
- Proliferative Phase (Days 6–14): Repair and thickening of the endometrium under the influence of estrogen.
- Ovulation (Day 14): Release of a mature ovum from the ovary.
- Secretory Phase (Days 15–28): Endometrium thickens under progesterone in preparation for possible implantation.
If fertilization does not occur, hormone levels drop, and menstruation begins again.
Fertilization and Pregnancy:
Fertilization: Fusion of a sperm and an ovum, usually in the fallopian tube, forming a zygote.
Implantation: Zygote attaches to the uterine wall and develops into an embryo.
Gestation (Pregnancy): Period of fetal development inside the uterus, lasting about 9 months (40 weeks).
Parturition (Childbirth): Process of delivering the baby through uterine contractions.
Functions of the Reproductive System:
- Production of male and female gametes (sperms and ova).
- Secretion of sex hormones for secondary sexual characteristics.
- Facilitation of fertilization and continuation of species.
- Nourishment and protection of developing embryo/fetus.
- Lactation for nourishment of the newborn.
Common Disorders:
- Infertility: Inability to conceive due to low sperm count, blocked tubes, or hormonal imbalance.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Hormonal disorder causing irregular periods and ovarian cysts.
- Endometriosis: Growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus causing pain and infertility.
- Prostate Enlargement: Common in elderly males; causes difficulty in urination.
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Infections such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV affecting the reproductive system.
Disclaimer (Educational Purpose Only):
This article is strictly for educational purposes as part of the D.Pharmacy syllabus under the subject Human Anatomy and Physiology.
It explains the human reproductive system purely from a biological and physiological perspective to help pharmacy students understand the structure and functions of reproductive organs.
No adult, explicit, or inappropriate content is included or intended.
