Human Reproduction Flashcards
What is reproduction?
Reproduction is the production of young ones by an organism.
What type of reproduction do humans follow?
Humans are sexually reproducing and viviparous (give birth to live young).
What are the four main components of the male reproductive system?
Paired testes, Accessory ducts, Accessory glands, and External genitalia (penis).
What are the functions of the testes?
Produce sperm and secrete testosterone.
Where are the testes formed, and when do they descend?
Formed in the abdomen, descend into the scrotum at birth or by the 8th month of pregnancy.
Why is the scrotum important for sperm production?
It maintains a temperature 2-2.5°C lower than body temperature, which is essential for spermatogenesis.
What are the dimensions of each testis?
Length: 4-5 cm, Width: 2-3 cm.
How many lobules are in each testis?
About 250 lobules per testis.
What is present inside each lobule?
1-3 coiled seminiferous tubules.
What type of cells line the seminiferous tubules?
- Male germ cells (spermatogonia) – Develop into sperm.
- Sertoli cells – Provide nutrition to germ cells.
What is found outside the seminiferous tubules?
Interstitial spaces containing Leydig cells, blood vessels, and immune cells.
What is the function of Leydig cells?
Secrete androgens (testosterone).
What are the accessory ducts in order of sperm transport?
Seminiferous tubules → Rete testis → Vasa efferentia → Epididymis → Vas deferens → Ejaculatory duct → Urethra → Urethral meatus.
What is the function of the epididymis?
Stores sperm temporarily and helps in maturation.
What does the urethra receive?
Ducts of the prostate and Cowper’s glands.
What are the three accessory glands?
Prostate gland, Seminal vesicles (pair), and Cowper’s glands (pair).
What is the collective secretion of these glands called?
Seminal plasma.
What is the composition of seminal plasma?
Rich in fructose, calcium, and enzymes.
What does seminal plasma + sperm form?
Semen.
What are the functions of seminal plasma?
- Helps in sperm transport.
- Supplies nutrients to sperm.
- Provides alkalinity to neutralize the acidic environment of the uterus.
What is the role of Cowper’s glands?
Lubricate the penis.
What helps in sperm maturation and motility?
Secretions from the epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, and prostate.
What is the function of the penis?
Copulatory organ that facilitates insemination.
What type of tissue makes up the penis?
Erectile spongy tissue.
What causes an erection?
Filling of spongy tissue with blood.
What is the tip of the penis called?
Glans penis.
What covers the glans penis?
Prepuce (foreskin).
