Human Reproductive Anatomy Flashcards
What is the function of the ovaries?
Produce eggs and oestrogen & progesterone
What is the function of the Fallopian tube?
Carries eggs to uterus & is the site of fertilisation
What is the function of the uterus?
Responsible for development of embryo and foetus
What is the cervix?
1) Ring of muscles that attaches the uterus to the vagina.
2) Produces a mucus which aids in the transport of sperm from the vagina to the uterus
3) At other times acts as a barrier
What is the vagina?
Receptacle for sperm and passageway for menstrual blood and foetus at birth.
What is the endometrium?
Lining of the uterus
What are the testes?
Where sperm cells are formed and stored.
Makes testosterone.
What is the function of the penis?
Expel sperm into the vagina
What is the scrotum?
“Climate control” system for the testes
What is semen made up of?
1) SPERM cells 2) Excretions from the SEMINAL VESICLE and PROSTATE GLAND
What is the function of the epididymis?
Matures sperm
What is the urethra (male)?
Tube through which semen and urine travel
What are the Vas Deferens?
Tubes that transport mature sperm to the urethra
What is the function of the seminal vesicle? (bigger, carrot shaped)
Provides sperm with a source of energy
What is the function of the Cowper’s gland? (smaller, rounder)
Produces a clear, slippery fluid which lubricates the urethra and neutralizes acidity
Name the process by which eggs are produced
Oogenesis
Another name for egg
Ovum
How does the egg move through the Fallopian tube?
By cilia lining the tubes
What reaction prevents further sperm from entering the egg?
Cortical reaction
Which is larger - egg or sperm cell?
Egg
What is the outer protective layer around the egg?
Zona pellucida
Contents of an ovum
Cortical granules, cytoplasm, mitochondria, nucleus, plasma membrane, polar body and zona pellucida.
What are the three parts of a sperm cell?
Headpiece, mid-piece and tail
What is the headpiece made up of?
Nucleus and acrosome
What is the purpose of the acrosome?
Contains enzymes that help penetrate the egg
What is the mid-piece made up of and what is its function?
Mitochondria - to generate energy for swimming
What is the TAIL of a sperm and what is its PURPOSE?
A long flagellum that propels the sperm
Where are sperm produced?
Testes
How long do sperm cells live (approx.)?
48 hours
What is the process by which sperm are produced called?
Spermatogenesis
