Reproduction Flashcards
Describe homologous structures in the male and female reproductive systems
Homologous structures are similar structural components derived from the same embryonic tissues, with each having corresponding structures
List the female homologous structures corresponding to the penis and scrotum
clitoris and labial folds
Identify the female homologous structure for spermatozoa
oocytes (egg shells)
What are the female homologous structures for seminal vesicles, prostate, and bulbourethral glands?
paraurethral glands and greater vestibular glands
State the female homologous structure for testes
ovaries
List the female homologous structures for epididymis, ductus deferens, and urethra
uterine tube
Define the general functions of the reproductive system
forming gametes, uniting gametes through sexual intercourse, combining genetic material, and supporting development and birth offspring
State the product of mitosis
2 identical copies of daughter cells
Explain the primary function of meiosis
To create genetic diversity and produce haploid gametes with half the number of chromosomes as the original cell
Define gamete and list the male and female gametes
Gametes are specialized cells carrying 23 chromosomes; male gametes are sperm and female gametes are oocytes
Explain why gametes have half the number of chromosomes compared to other body cells
Gametes have half the number of chromosomes to ensure that when a sperm and oocyte unite, a new cell with unique genetics is formed
State the function of the testes
The testes produce sperm and hormones that support male reproductive physiology
Describe the function of the dartos muscle
The dartos muscle contracts to tighten the scrotum, reducing heat loss when exposed to cold temperatures
Explain the role of the cremaster muscle
The cremaster muscle contracts in cold temperatures to elevate the testes, moving them closer to the body to retain heat
What is the function of the seminiferous tubule?
The seminiferous tubule is responsible for sperm development
Describe the function of the epididymis
The epididymis is involved in the maturation and storage of sperm
What is the role of the prostate gland?
The prostate gland transports seminal fluid
What does the seminal vesicle produce?
the seminal vesicle produces seminal fluid
Clarify the difference between the words prostrate and prostate
prostate refers to the gland in the male reproductive system
prostrate means to make someone helpless
State the function of the bulbourethral gland
The bulbourethral gland secretes a lubricating mucus that cleans and lubricates the urethra prior to and during ejaculation
Describe the function of the ductus deferens (vas deferens)
The ductus deferens transports sperm from the epididymis through the spermatic cord to the ejaculatory duct
What is the function of the penis?
The penis is the male organ of sexual intercourse, flaccid for non-sexual actions and erect upon sexual arousal
Define fertilization
Fertilization is the combination of the sperm and oocyte
How many sperm are produced each day?
Approx. 100-300 million sperm are produced each day
Provide a brief description of the structure of a sperm?
a sperm consists of a round head, mid piece, and a tail
Explain why the testes are located outside the pelvic cavity
The testes are located outside the pelvic cavity to maintain a temperature lower than the body temperature, which is necessary for sperm production
Describe the function of Sertoli cells
Sertoli cells support germ cells through the process of spermatogenesis
Explain how smoking affects sperm
Smoking and the use of nicotine products reduce sperm count and cause sperm abnormalities
List the structures sperm travels through from the seminiferous tubules to the penis
seminiferous tubules–> straight tubules–> rate testis–> epididymis–> duct system–> seminal vesicles –> prostate gland–> apulpourethral glands–> urethra–> penis
Describe vasectomy
cutting and sealing a small section of the ductus deferens accessed by making a small incision in the scrotum
Explain why a male still ejaculates semen after a vasectomy
Cutting the ductus defers prevents sperm from entering the ejaculate, but semen includes fluids from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands
Explain why vasectomy does not affect male sexual drive or function
Hormone production, blood supply and ejaculation remain unchanged after a vasectomy
Describe the reason many males over the age of 60 need to urinate frequently
by age 60, about 40% of men have some degree of prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which can constrict the urethra and lead to urinary tract symptoms
Describe the differences between the corpora caverns and the corpus spongiosum
Corpora caverns are the 2 larger chambers of erectile tissue in the penile shaft, while the corpus spongiosum is a smaller chamber surrounding the spongy or penile urethra
Describe circumcision
The removal of the prepuce (foreskin)
Explain the role of nitric oxide in the male sexual response
Nitric oxide is released during sexual arousal, activating a signaling pathway that relaxes smooth muscles around penile arteries, increasing blood flow into the penis
State which division of the autonomic nervous system controls erection
Erections are under parasympathetic control
State which division of the autonomic nervous system controls ejaculation
Ejaculation is under sympathetic control
Describe the functions of testosterone
Testosterone controls male reproductive physiology, maturation and maintenance of male reproductive organs, initiates spermatogenesis, activates physical changes during puberty, and is necessary for the male reproductive system to function properly
Explain how testosterone secretion is controlled
Controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, with the hypothalamus secreting GnRH to stimulate LH and FSH secretion from the anterior pituitary gland
Describe the role of LH in males
LH binds to interstitial endocrine cells and stimulates the release of testosterone
State the function of the ovaries
The ovaries are responsible for oocyte formation and hormone production
Define oogenesis
Oogenesis is the process of forming oocytes in the ovaries
Explain the process of folliculogenesis
the maturation of ovarian follicles from primordial to mature follicles
How does ovulation occur?
Ovulation occurs when a mature follicle ruptures, releasing the oocyte into the fallopian tube
Describe the function of the suspensory ligament of the ovary
It provides structural support to the ovary and contains ovarian blood and lymph vessels
What is the role of the ovarian ligament?
The ovarian ligament attaches each ovary to the lateral wall of the uterus
How do uterine tubes function in reproduction?
Uterine tubes transport the ovulated oocyte to the uterus
Describe the primary function of the uterus
The uterus nourishes and supports a growing embryo
What is the function of the cervix?
The cervix produces mucus secretions that facilitate sperm movement and connects the uterus to the vagina
Explain the role of the vagina in reproduction
The vagina allows for penile/vaginal intercourse and serves as the exit for an infant during natural vaginal birth
Describe ovarian cysts
Typically noncancerous and require no treatment unless they cause discomfort
What symptoms are associated with ovarian cysts?
heavy sensation, sharp pain, bloating, irregular menstruation, and pain during sex
State the approximate number of primary oocytes present at puberty
Approx. 400,000 primary oocytes are present at puberty
Describe the primary follicle in the ovarian cycle
The primary follicle contains an oocyte surrounded by a single layer of granulose cells that nourish the developing oocyte
What occurs during the growing follicle stage?
Granulosa cells proliferate, forming multiple layers around the enlarging oocyte and developing a fluid filled cavity
Define a mature follicle
A mature follicle, or Graafian follicle, is a fully developed follicle with a secondary oocyte, zone pellucid, corona radiate, and a large antrum
How is ovulation triggered?
Ovulation is triggered by a surge in LH, causing the mature follicle to rupture and release the oocyte
What happens to the follicle after ovulation?
After ovulation, the remains of the follicle transform into the corpus luteum
Describe the corpus luteum
The corpus luteum is a yellow structure that secretes estrogen and progesterone, vital for uterine lining development
What occurs if fertilization does not happen?
The corpus luteum regresses into the corpus albicans, which is reabsorbed
Where does fertilization of an oocyte usually occur?
Fertilization typically occurs in the fallopian tubes
Describe the follicular phase of the ovarian cycle
The follicular phase lasts the first 13 days of a 28 day cycle, where primordial follicles develop into primary follicles
What role does inhibit play during the follicular phase?
Inhibit is released from granulose cells, allowing primary follicles to develop into secondary follicles
How do FSH and LH levels affect follicle development?
Increased levels of GSH and LH trigger secondary follicles to develop into tertiary and then mature follicles
Describe the process that occurs after the primary oocyte completes meiosis I
The primary oocyte divides into 2 cells; the smaller cell disintegrates while the larger cell receives most of the cytoplasm and becomes the secondary oocyte
How does the secondary oocyte progress through meiosis II?
The secondary oocyte reaches meiosis II and arrests in metaphase, completing meiosis II only if fertilized by sperm
Explain the process of ovulation
Ovulation is the release of a secondary oocyte from the mature follicle, occurring approximately every 28 days, triggered by a peak in LH
Define the luteal phase in the ovarian cycle
The luteal phase is the second part of the ovarian cycle where the corpus luteum forms and secretes hormones to prepare the uterus for a fertilized oocyte
What occurs if the secondary oocyte is not fertilized?
the corpus luteum degenerates into the corpus albicans, leading to decreased progesterone and estrogen, which causes the shedding of the uterine lining, known as menstruation
Describe the role of healthy vaginal bacteria
Healthy vaginal bacteria, primarily Lactobacillus, protect against infections by pathogenic organisms, maintaining a balanced microbial environment
How can the balance of healthy vaginal bacteria be disrupted?
Douching, using antibacterial soaps, and cleaning with harsh chemicals can disrupt the normal balance of vaginal microorganisms, increasing the risk of infections
What are the 3 layers of the uterine wall?
- perimetrium: the outer sous membrane
- Myometrium: the thick smooth muscle layer
- Endometrium: the innermost layer with glandular tissue
Explain the structure and function of the endometrium
consists of simple columnar epithelium and connective tissue, with 2 layers: stratum basalts (which does not shed) and stratum functionals (which sheds during menstruation if no fertilization occurs)
Describe the menstrual phase of the uterine cycle
involves the shedding of the functional layer of the endometrium, occurring from the first day of menstruation until the last day of bleeding
What characterizes the proliferative phase of the uterine cycle?
marked by the growth of a new functional layer of the endometrium, follicle growth, and increased estrogen release from the ovaries, occurring around days 6-14
What happens during the secretory phase of the uterine cycle?
Progesterone from the corpus luteum increases blood vessel formation and the growth of uterine glands, occurring around days 15-28
How do hormones regulate ovulation and the uterine cycle?
Hormonal regulation involves the hypothalamus releasing GnRH, stimulating the pituitary gland to secrete LH and FSH, which promote estrogen and progesterone production, affecting the endometrium and regulating ovulation and menstruation
What is the role of estrogen in the uterine cycle?
Estrogen promotes the growth of the functional layer of the endometrium during the proliferative phase and supports the development of ovarian follicles
How does progesterone influence the uterine lining?
Progesterone increases blood supply and stimulates the growth of uterine glands during the secretory phase, preparing the endometrium for potential implantation
Describe the role of GnRH in the hormonal cascade?
GnRH, secreted by the hypothalamus, initiates the hormonal cascade by targeting the pituitary gland and is released in a pulsatile manner
Explain the function of FSH in the menstrual cycle
FSH, follicle stimulating hormone, facilitates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, with levels rising during the early part of the menstrual cycle to promote follicle development
How does LH contribute to ovulation?
LH, luteinizing hormone, surges around the mid-cycle, triggering ovulation
Define the role of estrogen during the proliferative phase
Estrogen thickens the endometrium during the proliferative phase, preparing it for potential implantation of a fertilized egg
Describe the stratum functionalist and its response to estrogen
The stratum functionalist thickens in response to estrogen during the proliferative phase and is shed during menstruation if implantation does not occur
What happens to the corpus luteum if fertilization does not occur?
If no fertilization occurs, the corpus luteum degenerates, leading to a drop in estrogen and progesterone levels
Explain the process of menstruation
Menstruation is the disintegration and shedding of the stratum functionals due to the decline in hormone levels, marking the beginning of a new cycle
Describe the external female reproductive structures
The vulva consists of the external female reproductive structures, including the clitoris, labia minor, and labia majora
What is the significance of the clitoris in female sexual function?
The clitoris is a nerve rich area of the vulva that contributes to sexual sensation during intercourse and is vital for sexual pleasure and orgasm
Define the labia minora
The labia minor are thin, pigmented, hairless flaps of skin located medial to the labia majora
What is the function of Bartholin’s glands?
also known as vestibular glands
Produce a thick mucus that maintains moisture in the vulva area
Describe the anatomy of the breasts
Breasts are considered accessory organs with the primary function of supplying milk to an infant, featuring a nipple surrounded by a pigmented areola
Explain the role of areolar glands during lactation
Areolar glands secrete lubricating fluid during lactation to protect the nipple from chafing
How is breast milk produced?
Breast milk is produced by mammary glands, which are modified sweat glands, and is pushed to the lactiferous sinuses by contracting myoepithelial cells
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies to infants, promoting healthy growth and development
Describe the components of human milk that benefit infants
Human milk contains distinct molecules and antibodies that protect infants from infection, contribute to immune system maturation, support organ development, and help create healthy microbial colonization
How does breastfeeding provide immunity to infants?
Breastfeeding provides passive natural immunity from mother to child through the transfer of antibodies and other immune factors present in human milk
Define the excitement phase of the female sexual response
In the excitement phase, the clitoris and labia swell, breasts become engorged, nipples become erected, and there is an increase in vaginal lubrication, increased HR BP and skeletal muscle tone and hyperventilation
What occurs during the plateau phase of the female sexual response?
During the plateau phase, the changes from the excitement phase continue and are maintained at an intense level
Describe the orgasm phase in the female sexual response
The orgasm phase is the briefest phase characterized by rhythmic muscular contractions, a further increase in blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate. Femailes can experience 2 or more orgasms in succession
Define menopause
Menopause is the cessation ion the menstrual cycle that occurs due to the loss of ovarian follicles and the hormones they produce
What happens during the resolution phase of the female sexual response?
In the resolution phase, relaxation occurs, and genital tissue, heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing return to the unaroused state
Describe surgical methods of birth control
Vasectomy in males
tubal ligation in female
What are the hormonal methods of birth control?
involve the use of hormones to prevent ovulation and pregnancy, providing a constant level of estrogen and progesterone that negatively feeds back onto the hypothalamus and pituitary, thus preventing the release of FSH and LH.
ex: birth control pills, skin patches, vaginal rings, hormone injections, and the morning after pill
Describe the physiological methods of birth control
Include IUDs which prevent fertilization by blocking sperm access to the secondary oocyte, and barrier methods like condoms and vaginal pouches that physically prevent sperm from entering the uterus
What are spermicides and how do they function?
Foams, creams, and jellies that create an unfavorable environment for sperm survival in the vagina and cervix, and are placed in the vagina before sexual intercourse
