Reproduction Flashcards
Function of the female reproductive system
- Produce Haploid gametes
- Facilitate fertilisation
- Site for implantation of the embryo
- Provide physical and nutritional needs to nurture neonate after birth
Ovarian asymmetry
Only one ovary is active each month
What are the phases of the menstrual cycle and which primary sex hormones are they mediated by
Pre-Ovulatory Phase - Mediated by Oestrogen
Post-Ovulatory Phase - Mediated by progesterone
What region of the ovary contains the majority of the blood supply?
Medulla
Which region of the ovary contains the developing eggs?
Cortex
What is the connective tissue layer that surrounds the ovary?
Tunica albuginea
What is Germinal epithelium?
Cuboidal epithelial cells that surround the ovary and are derived from the peritoneum
Effects of FSH in Females
- Stimulates follicle cells to produce oestrogen during pre-ovulatory stage
- Causes ovulation
- Stimulates corpus luteum to produce progesterone during post-ovulatory
stage
Effects of FSH in males
- Stimulates sertoli cells to produce androgen binding protein
- Stimulates spermatogenesis
- Stimulates sertoli cells to produce inhibin which provides negative feedback to decrease FSH secretion when testosterone levels get too high
Effects of LH in males
Stimulates leydig cells to produce testosterone
Stimulates spermatogenesis
Effects of LH in females
Stimulates follicle cells to produce oestrogen during pre-ovulatory stage
Causes ovulation
Triggers corpus luteum formation
Define Puberty
Period at beginning of adolescence where sex glands become functional and secondary sex characteristics emerge
What changes can be seen during puberty?
Reproductive organs change size
Pubic hair
Deepening of voice
Difference between puberty and adolescence
Puberty - Characterised by physical changes seen
Adolescence - physiological/behavioural changes
Name the mature female reproductive cell
Ovum
Name the mature male reproductive cell
Spermatozoan
Where does fertilisation occur?
Ampulla of uterine tube
What is the size of a human egg?
100-150um
What is the size of a human sperm?
6um
What is syngamy?
Fusion of gametes
How long after ovulation does gamete fusion occur?
12-24 hours
What is the role of female reproductive system with regards to sperm?
Female reproductive tract filters sperm
What happens to sperm in the female tract?
Capacitation
Acrosomal reaction
Motility changes
How long does it take for sperm to develop?
60-75 days