Reproduction Flashcards
Testes
Produce sperm cells
Scrotum
Where the testes are located. Keeps the testes at a slightly lower temperature than body temperature.
Vas deferens
The tube through which sperm cells travel from the testes to the penis
Prostate gland
Secretes some of the liquid that is added to sperm cells to form semen. The fluid secreted by the prostate gland is alkaline and contains many chemicals including enzymes. It plays an important role in keeping sperm cells alive once they enter the female reproductive system.
Seminal vesicle
Also contributes some of the liquid that makes up semen. The fluid produced by the seminal vesicle contains proteins, enzymes, sugar, vitamin C and other substances. The sugar provides a source of energy for sperm cells.
Urethra
The tube inside the penis through which semen leaves the male’s body
Penis
The penis swells during sexual arousal. Semen containing sperm cells is ejaculated (released) from the penis into the vagina.
Ovaries
Produce ova. One egg is produced about once a month from one of the ovaries.
Fallopian tubes/oviducts
Tubes through which ova must travel to reach the uterus. Fertilisation occurs in the fallopian tubes.
Uterus
About the size of a pear when not pregnant. It is where the embryo implants and is ‘home’ for the developing baby. The uterus lining is called the endometrium.
Cervix
The passageway between the vagina and the uterus. During childbirth, the cervix dilates (opens up) to allow the baby to come out of the uterus. A ‘Pap smear’ involves scraping some cells from the cervix’s lining to check for any pre-cancerous changes.
Vagina
The elastic tube that connects the uterus to the outside world through which semen enters the female’s reproductive system. During birth, babies are pushed out of the uterus and pass through the vagina to enter the world.
Clitoris
Swells during sexual arousal and becomes highly sensitive when erect.
