Reproductive

Question 1

Changes with aging (female)

Answer 1

atrophy of fallopian tubes

ovaries become thicker & smaller

cervix become smaller

drier, less elastic vagina=increased risk of tearing and infection

flattening of labia

endocervical epithelium atrophies

uterus become smaller

endometrium atrophies

vagina becomes more alkaline

loss of vulvar sub Q fat and hair

Question 2

Changes with aging (male)

Answer 2

seminal vesicles:

• smoothing of mucosa
• thinning of the epithelium
• replacement of muscle tissue with connective tissue
• reduced fluid-retaining capacity

seminiferous tubules:

• increased fibrosis
• thinning of the epithelium
• thickening of the basement membrane
• narrowing of the lumen

possible reduction in sperm count

venous and arterial sclerosis of penis

prostate enlarges (benign prostate hyperplasia)

some atrophy of the testes