Reproductive system Flashcards
Testes definition?
The primary sex organs that produce sperm and testosterone, the male sex hormone. The testes are located in the scrotum, a thin sac of skin outside the abdomen.
Seminal Vesicles definition?
A pair of pouch-like glands that produce fluids that become semen. They are located in the male pelvis, in front of the rectum and behind the bladder.
Prostate definition?
Produces a milky white fluid that contains enzymes, proteins, and other chemicals that support sperm during ejaculation. The prostate also contains smooth muscle that can constrict to prevent the flow of urine or semen.
Bulbourethral glands definition?
Also known as Cowper’s glands, these glands contribute fluid to the ejaculate.
Epididymis definition?
A crescent-shaped, paired structure that transports sperm from the reproductive glands. It is located along the back of the testes.
Urethra definition?
A shared structure between the male reproductive and urinary systems. In the reproductive system, it provides a passage for sperm and seminal fluid during ejaculation. In the urinary system, it provides a passage for urine excretion.
Ovaries definition:
A pair of small, almond-shaped organs that produce eggs during ovulation.
Uterus definition:
A pear-shaped organ where a fertilized egg implants and a baby develops. The uterus is also responsible for the menstrual cycle.
Fallopian tubes definition:
A pair of muscular tubes that lie near the ovaries.
Cervix definition:
A cylindrical-shaped part of the uterus that protrudes into the vaginal canal.
Clitoris definition:
The most sensitive part of the vulva, which enables sexual pleasure.
Labia minora definition:
A pair of thin folds that surround the clitoris, vaginal orifice, and urinary orifice.
Bartholin’s gland definition:
A pea-sized gland that secretes mucus to lubricate the vagina and vulva.
Mons pubis definition:
A rounded mass of fatty tissue that lies over the pubic bones.
What is the menstrual cycle?
The female reproductive system experiences cyclic changes known as the menstrual cycle, which prepares the body for ovulation and pregnancy.
At what age or phase does the menstrual cycle begin and end?
Menstruation typically begins around age 12.4 (menarche) and involves hormonal shifts.
This cycle ends at menopause, usually around age 51.
Gametes definition?
Specialized reproductive cells with half the genetic material (haploid) of normal body cells.
What is Gametogenesis and where does it occur?
The process through which gametes are formed, involving meiosis and cellular
differentiation.
Gametogenesis occurs in the gonads (testes in males, ovaries in females).
Meiosis definition?
A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, ensuring offspring have the correct chromosome count when gametes fuse during fertilization.