Reproductive system Flashcards
What are the major structures of the female reproductive system?
- Gonads (produce gametes and hormones)
- Ducts (transport gametes)
- Accessory glands
- External genitalia
What are the major structures of the male reproductive system?
- Gonads (produce gametes and hormones)
- Ducts (transport gametes)
- Accessory glands
- External genitalia
What is the process of gamete production in females called?
Oogenesis
What is the process of gamete production in males called?
Spermatogenesis
What hormones coordinate the menstrual cycle?
- FSH (Follicular Stimulating Hormone)
- LH (Luteinizing Hormone)
- Oestrogen
- Progesterone
What is the role of FSH in the ovarian cycle?
Stimulates development of primary follicles
What triggers ovulation?
Peak in LH levels
What occurs during the menstrual phase?
Blood vessels supplying endometrium constrict, causing degradation and release of blood
What phase follows ovulation in the uterine cycle?
Luteal phase
What does the corpus luteum secrete?
- Progesterone
- Oestrogen
Fill in the blank: The _______ phase is where the endometrium is restored.
Proliferative
What is the main function of the cervix during the menstrual cycle?
Produces mucus that changes in viscosity
What is a common factor when choosing a form of contraception?
Effectiveness, side effects, ease of use, personal health
What are some hormonal contraceptive methods?
- Combined oestrogen and progesterone
- Progesterone only
What is a copper intrauterine device (IUD) used for?
Spermicidal effect
What is the average age of menopause onset?
51 years
What are common symptoms of menopause?
- Hot flushes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal atrophy
- Low mood
What is cryptorchidism?
Undescended testes
What is the role of interstitial cells (Leydig cells)?
Produce testosterone
What are the symptoms of late-onset hypogonadism?
- Erectile dysfunction
- Reduced muscle mass
- Low mood
- Loss of libido
True or False: Most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are symptomatic.
False
What is the most common STI in the UK?
Chlamydia
What is the primary method of diagnosing gonorrhoea?
Swabs or urine samples
What are the stages of syphilis?
- Primary
- Secondary
- Latent
- Tertiary
