The Reproductive SystemThe reproductive system is inactive

until the onset of pubertyDuring puberty, the organs become

active and reproduction becomes possible.

The primary sex organs are called the gonads, with the male gonad being the testes and the female gonad being the ovaries.

The gonads produce sex cells called gamates, which are called sperm in males and ova in females.

The TestesSmall olive shaped organHas both endocrine and exocrine

functionsThe exocrine function deals with the

production of sperm The endocrine function deals the

production of testosteroneHas an elaborate transport system

composed of the epididymus (storage site for immature sperm), ductus deferens (propels live sperm), and urethra (passageway that exits the body)

Accessory Glands and SemenSemen – sperm containing fluidSeminal Vesicles – produce 60% f the fluid

volume of semenProstrate Gland – a chestnut shaped gland

that activates spermBulbourethral gland – tiny, pea-sized gland

that produces a lubricating secretionScrotum – a sac that contains the testesPenis – shaft portion of the male

reproductive system that is used t deliver sperm into the female reproductive system.

Functions of the Male Reproductive System

Spermatogenesis – sperm production

Testosterone Production – produces the hormone testosterone, which is responsible for:The deepening of the voiceIncreased hair growthEnlargement of skeletal muscleIncreased bone thickness

OvariesAlmond shaped organs of the female

reproductive systemContains all of the immature eggs or oocytesAs the oocytes mature, a process called

ovulation occursThey are connected to the exterior of the

body by a duct system comprised of the:

Uterine or Fallopian TubesForm initial part of duct systemReceive the ovulated oocyte and provide a

site where fertilization can occur

UterusA hallow organ that functions to receive, retain,

and nourish a fertilized egg.Major portion is referred to as the bodyThe superior rounded region is known as the

fundusThe narrow outlet that protrudes into the vagina

is called the cervixWhen a fertilized egg reaches the uterus, it will

implant into a layer called the endometrium, which has been prepared with a rich supply of blood and nutrients. If the egg is unfertilized, this layer is sloughed off during a monthly process called menstruation

VaginaAlso called the birth canalIt connects the uterus to the exterior

External GenitaliaMons pubis – anterior area of the genital

region that develops hair after pubertyLabia majora – elongated skin foldsLabia minora – delicate, hair-free foldsGreater vestibular glands – secrete

lubricating fluidsClitoris – small, protruding structure that

corresponds to the male penis

Functions of the Female Reproductive SystemOogenesis – the production of female gametesUterine (menstrual) cycle – a three stage

cycle that repeats about every 28 days in which the Day 1-5: Menstrual phase – endometrial

layer is sloughed offDay 6-14: Proliferative phase – the

endometrial layer is rebuilt and ovulation occurs at the end of this phase

Day 15-28: Secretory phase – nutrients are secreted into the uterine cavity to support a potential embryo

Functions of the Female Reproductive SystemEstrogen Production - produces the

various hormones collectively known as estrogen, which is responsible forEnlargement of the female reproductive

organsDevelopment of the breastsAppearance of axillary and pubic hairIncreased deposits of fat in the hips and

breastsWidening and lightening of the pelvisOnset of the menstrual cycle

The Mammary GlandAre present in both sexes, but normally only

function in femalesMain purpose is to produce milk to nourish

newborn babiesBecome active after reproduction has already

been accomplished

Cancers of the Reproductive SystemBreast

Cancer of the breast is the second most common cause of death in American women

It is often signaled by a change in skin texture, puckering, or leakage from the nipple

Early detection by breast self-examinations and mammography is the best way of increasing survival rates

Cancers of the Reproductive SystemCervical

A slow growing cancer that develops in the cervix

Is detected by a procedure called a Pap smear

ProstateCancer that develops in the prostate

gland in malesIt is the third most prevalent cancer in

menIt is a slow-growing, hidden condition,

but it can be swift and deadly if not detected