Human reproduction Flashcards
What is the function of the ovaries?
They form ova by meiosis and secrete oestrogen.
What is the function of the fallopian tubes (oviducts)?
They are the site of fertilization.
What is the function of the uterus?
It is the site of implantation.
What happens to the cervix during childbirth?
It dilates.
What is the function of the vagina?
It is involved in copulation and sperm deposition.
What are secondary sexual characteristics in females?
- Breast enlargement
- Axial and pubic hair
- Widening of the pelvis
- Beginning of menstruation
What hormone is released at the beginning of the menstrual cycle?
FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone).
What are the functions of FSH?
- Stimulates maturation of ova
- Stimulates development of the follicle
- Stimulates secretion of oestrogen
What are the functions of oestrogen? (2 points)
- Repairs the uterine lining
- Stops FSH secretion
What hormone is secreted on day 13 of the cycle?
LH (Luteinizing Hormone).
What are the functions of LH?
- Causes ovulation (release of an ovum from the follicle)
- Stimulates secretion of progesterone
What is the function of progesterone?
It maintains the thickness of the uterine lining.
What are the functions of the placenta?
- Gas exchange (oxygen to foetus, CO₂ to mother)
- Nutrient transfer (glucose, amino acids)
- Excretion
What is the function of the umbilical cord?
- Umbilical artery: transports CO₂ and wastes away from foetus
- Umbilical vein: transports O₂ and nutrients to the foetus
What are the functions of the amniotic sac?
- Acts as a shock absorber
- Regulates temperature
- Allows foetal movement
What is the function of the testis?
- Formation of sperm
- Secretion of testosterone
What is the function of seminal vesicles and the prostate gland?
Formation of seminal fluid.
What is the function of the urethra in males?
Transport of both urine and semen.
What are secondary sexual characteristics in males?
- Facial, axial, and pubic hair
- Deepening of voice (Coarse deep voice)
- Widening of shoulders
What are the adaptive features of sperm?
- Nucleus: Contains haploid DNA (23 chromosomes)
- Acrosome: Secretes enzymes to digest the egg membrane
- Neck: Contains mitochondria to provide energy for movement
- Flagellum: Helps in swimming