Week 8: Reproductive System Flashcards
Where are the cells that produce testosterone located?
Testes
Define:
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) Axis
The hormonal system involving the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, and gonads (testes in males) that regulates reproductive processes and hormone production.
What are the specialized sex cells in males and females called?
In males, they are called sperm; in females, they are called oocytes or ova (eggs).
What is…
A group of hormones produced by the ovaries that regulate female reproductive and sexual functions.
Estrogens
What is the function of the uterus?
The uterus receives, retains, and nourishes the fetus.
What happens to hormone levels if fertilization does not occur?
If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, leading to a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels.
What is…
The phase of the uterine cycle following menstruation, during which the endometrial lining thickens and regenerates under the influence of estrogen.
Proliferative Phase
Define:
Urethra
The tube through which sperm and urine are expelled from the body.
What happens to the follicles each month?
Each month, follicles develop and release an oocyte into the peritoneal space.
How do fraternal twins occur?
Fraternal twins arise when two oocytes are released and fertilized individually.
Define:
Sympathetic Nervous System
The part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for initiating ejaculation by contracting reproductive ducts and accessory glands.
On which day does ovulation usually occur in a 28-day cycle?
Ovulation typically occurs around day 14.
What happens to the functional layer during menstruation?
The functional layer is shed during menstruation.
What is…
Paired glands that secrete a viscous fluid that constitutes about 60-70% of semen volume, enhancing sperm motility and providing energy through fructose.
Seminal Vesicles
Define:
Prostaglandins
Substances in the seminal vesicle secretion that initiate contractions of smooth muscle within the female reproductive system to aid sperm movement.
Define:
Gametes
Specialized sex cells (sperm in males and oocytes or ova in females) involved in sexual reproduction.
What happens to the corpus luteum if fertilization does not occur?
If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates into the corpus albicans, and hormone levels decrease.
Why is testosterone important for male reproductive health?
Testosterone is crucial for spermatogenesis, maintaining reproductive organs, achieving erection and ejaculation, and developing secondary sex characteristics.
The testes are responsible for producing sperm and testosterone.
True/False
True
Define:
Menstrual Phase (Menses)
The phase of the uterine cycle during which the endometrial lining is shed and expelled from the body, typically lasting a few days.
What are the two layers of the endometrium?
The two layers of the endometrium are the functional layer and the basal layer.
What is…
The developmental stage from approximately 9 weeks of gestation until birth.
Fetus
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is produced by the placenta after implantation.
True/False
True
Define:
Seminiferous Tubules
Coiled tubes within the testes where sperm production occurs, surrounded by smooth muscle to aid in sperm movement.
What does FSH stimulate in the testes?
FSH stimulates spermatogenesis by prompting sustentacular cells to produce androgen-binding protein (ABP).
What is…
Also known as Leydig cells; cells located outside the seminiferous tubules that produce testosterone.
Interstitial Cells
What is the Acrosomal reaction?
Release of acrosomal enzymes to digest hole in zona pellucida
Define:
Oogenesis
The process of producing oocytes, which begins during the fetal period and continues with the maturation of primary oocytes into mature oocytes.
What is the perineum?
The perineum is the area between the pubic symphysis and the coccyx, forming a diamond shape.
Which cells in the testes produce testosterone?
Testosterone is produced by the interstitial cells (Leydig cells) in the testes.
What is…
A surgical procedure where the ductus deferens is cut or ligated to prevent sperm from entering the ejaculate.
Vasectomy
Define:
Homologous
Referring to structures in different sexes that share a common origin during embryonic development and often have similar functions.
What is the zona pellucida?
The zona pellucida is a thick glycoprotein coat surrounding the oocyte.
What is formed during the luteal phase?
The corpus luteum forms during the luteal phase.
What is the primary function of the corpus luteum in the female reproductive cycle?
A) Produce oocytes
B) Maintain the endometrial lining
C) Facilitate ovulation
D) Produce follicle-stimulating hormone
B) Maintain the endometrial lining
What is…
Immature oocytes present from birth that remain in a suspended state until they are recruited for maturation during the menstrual cycle.
Primary Oocytes
How can HCG be detected in a pregnant woman?
HCG can be detected in the mother’s bloodstream about a week after fertilization and in urine about 7 to 12 days after conception.
What are the target organs of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in males?
FSH and LH target the testes.
Define:
Endometrium
The inner lining of the uterus that undergoes changes during the menstrual cycle and supports embryo implantation.
What is…
The neck of the uterus that connects to the vagina and has a mucus-secreting function to protect the uterus from infections and regulate sperm entry.
Cervix
What might cause a false negative result on a home pregnancy test?
Performing the test too early might result in a false negative, where the test is negative despite pregnancy.
Define:
Implantation
The process by which the embryo attaches to and embeds itself within the endometrial lining of the uterus.
How are GnRH, FSH, and LH levels regulated during the luteal phase?
GnRH, FSH, and LH levels are regulated by the levels of estrogen and progesterone produced by the ovaries.
Where does oogenesis occur?
Ovaries
What is…
The external genitalia of the female, which includes structures like the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, and clitoris.
Vulva
What allows the embryo to attach to the endometrial wall?
Trophoblast cells have special proteins that allow the embryo to attach to receptors on the endometrial wall.
When does implantation typically occur in the menstrual cycle?
Implantation occurs about six to seven days after ovulation, during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle.
Define:
Uterine Tubes
Also known as fallopian tubes, these tubes transport the oocyte from the ovary to the uterus and provide the site for fertilization.
How does the size of the uterus change with pregnancy?
The uterus becomes slightly larger in women who have been pregnant compared to those who have never been pregnant.
How long are the uterine tubes?
The uterine tubes are about 10 centimeters long.
The hormone that triggers ovulation is __________.
The hormone that triggers ovulation is Luteinizing hormone (LH).
What effect does testosterone have on the basal metabolic rate?
Testosterone increases the basal metabolic rate.
What is the role of the fimbriae during ovulation?
The fimbriae sweep over the ovarian surface and create a current in the peritoneal fluid to help carry the ovulated oocyte into the uterine tube.
What is…
The enlarged tip at the end of the penis, sensitive to stimulation.
Glans Penis
How does the reproductive system support the development of offspring?
It combines genetic material from sperm and ova and provides a suitable environment in the uterus.
What is…
Structures that support reproductive functions, including ducts, glands, and external genitalia.
Accessory Reproductive Organs
Where does the production of oocytes (egg cells) occur?
A) Ovaries
B) Uterus
C) Fallopian tubes
D) Cervix
A) Ovaries
Define:
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)
A hormone produced by trophoblast cells of the embryo that signals the corpus luteum to continue producing progesterone and estrogen, preventing its degeneration and supporting pregnancy.
How does the hormonal signaling from the embryo affect the corpus luteum?
The hormonal signaling from the embryo, particularly HCG, affects the corpus luteum by preventing its degeneration, thereby maintaining high levels of progesterone and estrogen.
What is the HPG axis in the male reproductive system?
The HPG axis refers to the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, a hormonal system involving the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, and testes.
What is the role of androgen-binding protein (ABP) in spermatogenesis?
ABP binds and concentrates testosterone in the seminiferous tubules, enhancing spermatogenesis.
What changes occur at puberty due to increased testosterone levels?
Testosterone stimulates the growth of reproductive ducts and glands, increases penis size, and maintains these organs.
What is the purpose of meiosis in sperm production?
Meiosis reduces the chromosome number by half, so that when sperm and oocytes combine, the resulting zygote has the correct number of chromosomes (46).
What is…
The process during which a mature ovarian follicle releases an oocyte into the uterine tube, typically occurring around day 14 of the ovarian cycle.
Ovulation
Why might some oocytes be lost to the abdominal cavity?
Some oocytes may be lost to the abdominal cavity if they do not get captured by the fimbriae and are not swept into the uterine tube.
How does the autonomic nervous system regulate blood flow during an erection?
Parasympathetic nerves release nitric oxide, which relaxes smooth muscle and dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow.
What is the main role of the male reproductive system?
The main role is to manufacture and deliver sperm into the female reproductive tract.
How do the walls of the uterine tube help transport the oocyte?
The walls of the uterine tube contain smooth muscle and ciliated epithelial cells. Peristalsis and the beating of cilia help move the oocyte towards the uterus.
Define:
Greater Vestibular Glands
Glands located near the vaginal opening that secrete mucus to facilitate intercourse, analogous to the male bulbourethral glands.
Androgen Binding Protein is produced in which type of cell?
Sustentocytes
How does the embryo prevent the corpus luteum from degenerating?
The embryo produces human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) to signal the corpus luteum to continue producing progesterone and estrogen.
What is the role of olfactory receptors on capacitated sperm?
Olfactory receptors help sperm detect and navigate towards the oocyte by responding to chemicals released by the oocyte or surrounding cells.
What does the inner cell mass of a fertilized egg develop into?
The inner cell mass develops into the embryo.
Vasectomy involves cutting which tube?
Ductus deferens
What is…
Blood vessels in the endometrium that elongate and increase blood supply during the secretory phase to support a potential embryo.
Spiral Arteries
What is…
A carbohydrate produced by uterine glands that helps nourish the embryo during implantation.
Glycogen
What is…
The condition where multiple sperm enter an oocyte, which can lead to an abnormal number of chromosomes and typically results in the zygote’s death.
Polyspermy
What is…
The inner lining of the uterus that undergoes changes during the menstrual cycle and supports embryo implantation.
Endometrium
What is…
A hormone produced by the ovaries that plays a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting pregnancy.
Progesterone
What is…
Also known as fallopian tubes, these tubes transport the oocyte from the ovary to the uterus and provide the site for fertilization.
Uterine Tubes
How does testosterone influence behavior?
Testosterone influences sex drive and potentially some aggressive behavior.
Which hormones are predominant during the secretory phase?
Progesterone and some estrogen are predominant during the secretory phase.
The prostate gland is primarily responsible for producing sperm.
True/False
False
Define:
Hypophyseal Portal Veins
Blood vessels that transport GnRH from the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary.
What is…
The scar tissue formed when the corpus luteum degenerates if fertilization does not occur, leading to a decrease in progesterone and estrogen levels.
Corpus Albicans
What is ovum (oocyte) production called?
Oogenesis
What occurs in the proliferative phase?
Repair and regeneration of the functional layer
What are the 3 phases of the uterine cycle?
menstrual/menses
proliferative
secretory
Which two hormones do the ovaries produce?
a) Oestrogen and FSH
b) Oestrogen and progesterone
c) Testosterone and progesterone
d) FSH and LH
b) Oestrogen and progesterone
What happens during ejaculation to prevent urine from entering the urethra?
The bladder sphincter muscles constrict to prevent urine from entering the urethra and to stop semen from entering the bladder.
What is the main goal of the ovarian cycle?
The main goal of the ovarian cycle is to produce the oocyte.
What is…
Enzymes released from the acrosome of the sperm that help digest a path through the zona pellucida to allow sperm entry into the oocyte.
Acrosomal Enzymes
Define:
Trophoblast Cells
The outer layer of cells surrounding the inner cell mass in the fertilized egg, which will develop into the placenta.
What is…
The second phase of the ovarian cycle, starting around day 15 and lasting until day 28, marked by the formation of the corpus luteum and production of progesterone and estrogen.
Luteal Phase
The corpus luteum is involved in the production of estrogen and progesterone.
True/False
True
What is the role of the ovaries?
The ovaries produce female gametes (oocytes) and secrete the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Which hormone stimulates the cells that produce testosterone?
LH
What is…
A hormone released by the hypothalamus that stimulates the anterior pituitary to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH)
What is…
An organ that forms during pregnancy to nourish the embryo, remove waste, and produce hormones.
Placenta
What is the function of the prostate gland in semen production?
The prostate gland produces about 30% of the semen volume, containing nutrients and enzymes that break down the seminal clot to allow motile sperm to swim.
What triggers the start of the menstrual phase again?
The decline in progesterone and estrogen levels triggers the start of the menstrual phase.
What is the HPG axis?
The HPG axis is the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which regulates the ovarian cycle.
What is…
An erectile tissue structure located at the top of the vulva, homologous to the glans penis in males, which becomes engorged with blood during sexual arousal.
Clitoris
How does the acrosome of a sperm cell function?
The acrosome, a helmet-like cap on the sperm head, contains enzymes that help the sperm penetrate the oocyte during fertilization.
What is…
The erectile tissue surrounding the urethra in the penis, helping to keep the urethra open during erection.
Corpus Spongiosum
What is…
The phase of the uterine cycle during which the endometrial lining is shed and expelled from the body, typically lasting a few days.
Menstrual Phase (Menses)
Why are testes located in the scrotum?
a) Control of ejaculation
b) Temperature regulation
c) Facilitates erection
b) Temperature regulation
Define:
Vulva
The external genitalia of the female, which includes structures like the mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, and clitoris.
What are the three major regions of a sperm cell?
The head (containing the nucleus and acrosome), the midpiece (packed with mitochondria), and the tail (flagellum for propulsion).
How does the scrotum adjust when the testes are too warm?
The muscles relax, and the skin becomes loose and flaccid to increase surface area for cooling.
What is the clitoris, and how does it function?
The clitoris is homologous to the glans penis and contains erectile tissue that engorges with blood during sexual arousal.
What occurs in the follicle as it matures?
The follicle produces fluid called the antrum, which helps expel the oocyte during ovulation.
What happens to hormone levels as the corpus luteum degenerates?
As the corpus luteum degenerates, estrogen and progesterone levels decline.
What is…
A pouch of skin that houses the testes and maintains their optimal temperature for sperm production.
Scrotum
What is…
The developmental stage from fertilization until approximately 8 weeks of gestation.
Embryo
How does progesterone affect the endometrial lining if implantation does not occur?
A) It promotes thickening of the lining
B) It maintains the lining
C) It leads to the breakdown and shedding of the lining
D) It stimulates further ovulation
C) It leads to the breakdown and shedding of the lining
What is…
The tail of the sperm that propels it through the female reproductive tract.
Flagellum
What is…
A short tube where the ductus deferens joins with the seminal vesicles and passes into the urethra, carrying sperm and seminal fluid.
Ejaculatory Duct
Define:
Labia Minora
Two hair-free skin folds that enclose the vestibule and are located inside the labia majora.
Define:
Epididymis
A comma-shaped organ located on the posterior edge of the testes where sperm mature and are stored.
What happens to the follicle during ovulation?
During ovulation, the follicle bursts out of the ovary, releasing the oocyte.
What changes occur in the endometrial spiral arteries during the secretory phase?
The spiral arteries elongate and provide a good blood supply to the endometrium.
Define:
Flagellum
The tail of the sperm that propels it through the female reproductive tract.
What is…
A tube in the male reproductive system that transports sperm from the testes to the ejaculatory duct, also known as the vas deferens.
Ductus Deferens
How does FSH affect follicle maturation?
FSH promotes the maturation of a follicle in the ovaries.
What are accessory reproductive organs?
Accessory reproductive organs include ducts, glands, and external genitalia.
Define:
Perineum
The area of the body between the pubic symphysis and the coccyx, including the external genitalia.
What is…
The earliest stage of ovarian follicles containing primary oocytes. They are present from birth and remain dormant until puberty.
Primordial Follicles
What occurs in the menses phase?
Shedding of the functional layer
What is…
A hormone produced by trophoblast cells of the embryo that signals the corpus luteum to continue producing progesterone and estrogen, preventing its degeneration and supporting pregnancy.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)
What are the two phases of the ovarian cycle?
The ovarian cycle consists of the follicular phase and the luteal phase.
What triggers the acrosomal reaction in sperm?
The acrosomal reaction is triggered by the binding of sperm to the zona pellucida and an increase in calcium levels within the sperm.
What structure secretes human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) during early pregnancy?
A) Placenta
B) Corpus luteum
C) Ovaries
D) Uterus
A) Placenta
What is…
The inner mucosal layer of the uterus that supports the implantation of a fertilized egg.
Endometrium
What is…
The reaction triggered by the entry of sperm into the oocyte, which destroys additional sperm receptors and hardens the zona pellucida to prevent polyspermy.
Cortical Reaction
What is the anatomical relationship between the reproductive system and the urinary system?
The reproductive system is posterior to the urinary system, with the urinary bladder located anterior to it.
What is…
Coiled tubes within the testes where sperm production occurs, surrounded by smooth muscle to aid in sperm movement.
Seminiferous Tubules
Define:
Acrosomal Enzymes
Enzymes released from the acrosome of the sperm that help digest a path through the zona pellucida to allow sperm entry into the oocyte.
Define:
Peristalsis
The wave-like muscle contractions in the walls of the uterine tube that help move the oocyte towards the uterus.
Define:
Fetus
The developmental stage from approximately 9 weeks of gestation until birth.
Define:
Nitric Oxide
A chemical released by parasympathetic nerves that relaxes smooth muscle and dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow during an erection.
Define:
Penis
The copulatory organ designed to deliver sperm into the female reproductive tract, consisting of the glans penis and covered by the prepuce or foreskin.
What is…
Proteins on capacitated sperm that help them detect and navigate towards the oocyte by responding to chemicals released by the oocyte or its surrounding cells.
Olfactory Receptors
The anterior pituitary is stimulated to secrete hormones by which hormone?
GnRH
Define:
Glans Penis
The enlarged tip at the end of the penis, sensitive to stimulation.
What is…
The outer layer of the uterine wall.
Perimetrium
The luteal phase of the menstrual cycle occurs after ovulation.
True/False
True
What is…
The part of the endometrium that changes during the menstrual cycle and is shed during menstruation.
Functional Layer
What are the main stages of spermatogenesis?
Spermatogenesis starts with a spermatogonium that undergoes mitosis and meiosis to form spermatids, which then mature into sperm.
What hormone is primarily responsible for the thickening of the endometrial lining during the menstrual cycle?
A) Luteinizing hormone (LH)
B) Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
C) Progesterone
D) Estrogen
D) Estrogen
Define:
Parasympathetic Nervous System
A division of the autonomic nervous system that controls bodily functions during rest and relaxation, including the regulation of erection by releasing nitric oxide.
Define:
Basal Layer
The part of the endometrium that remains constant and regenerates the functional layer after menstruation.
What are the three cylindrical columns of the penis made up of?
They are made up of erectile tissue containing vascular spaces.
What is…
A gland that produces about 30% of semen volume, containing nutrients and enzymes that break down the seminal clot to facilitate sperm motility.
Prostate
T/F: Sperm that are freshly deposited into the vagina are capable of fertilisation.
False
What hormones are produced by the corpus luteum?
The corpus luteum produces large amounts of progesterone and estrogen.
What is…
A hormone released by the anterior pituitary that stimulates spermatogenesis by promoting the production of androgen-binding protein (ABP) in sustentacular cells.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
How does capacitation prepare sperm for fertilization?
Capacitation removes protective elements from the sperm’s plasma membrane, enhancing motility and allowing the sperm to release enzymes needed to penetrate the zona pellucida.
What structure becomes the ejaculatory duct?
The ejaculatory duct is formed where the ductus deferens joins the seminal vesicles.
What happens if polyspermy occurs?
If polyspermy occurs, the zygote may have too many chromosomes and may not survive.
What role does progesterone play during pregnancy?
Progesterone maintains the uterine lining and stimulates breast growth during pregnancy.
Define:
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
A hormone released by the anterior pituitary that stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles.
Define:
Spermatogenesis
The process of sperm production within the seminiferous tubules of the testes, starting at puberty and continuing throughout adult life.
What is…
The process of producing oocytes, which begins during the fetal period and continues with the maturation of primary oocytes into mature oocytes.
Oogenesis
What is…
The hormonal system involving the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary, and gonads (testes in males) that regulates reproductive processes and hormone production.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) Axis
Define:
Fimbriae
Ciliated, finger-like projections at the distal end of the uterine tubes that help capture the ovulated oocyte and guide it into the tube.
Which organ in the male reproductive system is responsible for the production of sperm?
A) Prostate gland
B) Seminal vesicle
C) Testes
D) Epididymis
C) Testes
Define:
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
A hormone released by the anterior pituitary that triggers ovulation and the formation of the corpus luteum.
Which hormone stimulates the production of sperm in the testes?
A) Luteinizing hormone (LH)
B) Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
C) Estrogen
D) Progesterone
B) Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
What is…
The area of the body between the pubic symphysis and the coccyx, including the external genitalia.
Perineum
Define:
Perimetrium
The outer layer of the uterine wall.
What does the inner cell mass become?
a) Embryo
b) Placenta
a) Embryo
What is…
A hormone produced alongside progesterone and estrogen to help maintain the endometrium and support pregnancy.
Inhibin
What is…
The part of the endometrium that remains constant and regenerates the functional layer after menstruation.
Basal Layer
What is…
The series of events in the ovaries that produce and release an oocyte, divided into the follicular phase and the luteal phase.
Ovarian Cycle
Define:
Oocytes
Sex cells produced by the female reproductive system, which are necessary for reproduction.
What is…
The fluid in the peritoneal cavity between the ovary and the uterine tube that assists in moving the oocyte into the uterine tube.
Peritoneal Fluid
How long does it take for the fertilized oocyte to implant into the uterus?
It takes about four to five days for the fertilized oocyte to implant into the uterus.
What is…
The wave-like muscle contractions in the walls of the uterine tube that help move the oocyte towards the uterus.
Peristalsis
The ________________ phase of the menstrual cycle involves the shedding of the endometrial lining.
The Menstrual phase of the menstrual cycle involves the shedding of the endometrial lining.
What is…
The process of sperm production within the seminiferous tubules of the testes, starting at puberty and continuing throughout adult life.
Spermatogenesis
What structures are included in the external genitalia of males?
The external genitalia include the penis and scrotum.
What are the main components of the female duct system?
The main components are the vagina, uterus, and uterine tubes.
Testosterone is produced in which cell type?
Interstitial cells
What is…
The primary male sex hormone produced from androgens that is crucial for the development of male reproductive tissues and secondary sexual characteristics.
Testosterone
Define:
Spiral Arteries
Blood vessels in the endometrium that elongate and increase blood supply during the secretory phase to support a potential embryo.
Define:
Inner Cell Mass
The cluster of cells inside the fertilized egg that develops into the embryo.
What is the purpose of the vascular spaces in the erectile tissue of the penis?
The vascular spaces fill with blood during an erection, causing the penis to become enlarged and rigid.
Which layer of the endometrium regenerates after menstruation?
The basal layer regenerates the functional layer after menstruation.
What is…
A type of bacteria that maintains the acidic environment of the vagina by converting glycogen into lactic acid.
Lactobacillus
What is the cortical reaction?
The cortical reaction destroys additional sperm receptors and hardens the zona pellucida to prevent polyspermy.
What happens to the veins in the penis during an erection?
The veins are compressed by the expanding erectile tissue, which helps maintain the erect state.
What occurs during the menstrual phase?
During the menstrual phase, the functional layer is shed, resulting in bleeding for 3 to 5 days.
What is the term for structures in the male and female reproductive systems that share a common origin?
These structures are called homologous.
Define:
Erectile Tissue
Three cylindrical columns within the penis that fill with blood during an erection, causing it to become enlarged and rigid.
Define:
Cervix
The neck of the uterus that connects to the vagina and has a mucus-secreting function to protect the uterus from infections and regulate sperm entry.
Which hormone is primarily responsible for triggering the menstrual phase of the uterine cycle?
A) Progesterone
B) Estrogen
C) Luteinizing hormone (LH)
D) Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
A) Progesterone
What are the primary sex organs in males and females?
In males, the primary sex organs are the testes; in females, they are the ovaries.
What happens to reproductive tissues if testosterone levels decline or are absent?
If testosterone levels decline or are absent, reproductive tissues reduce in size.
What is the primary role of the female reproductive system?
The primary role is to produce offspring for the survival of the species, including producing gametes (oocytes), providing an environment for offspring development, and giving birth.
Define:
Bulbourethral Glands
Paired glands that produce a thick mucus to lubricate the glans penis and neutralize traces of acidic urine in the urethra before ejaculation.
Define:
Ejaculation
The propulsion of semen from the body, controlled by the sympathetic nervous system.
What is the prepuce?
The prepuce, or foreskin, is the fold of skin covering the glans penis, which is removed during circumcision.
Define:
Estrogens
A group of hormones produced by the ovaries that regulate female reproductive and sexual functions.
How do identical twins occur?
Identical twins occur when a single fertilized egg divides into two embryos.
Define:
Clitoris
An erectile tissue structure located at the top of the vulva, homologous to the glans penis in males, which becomes engorged with blood during sexual arousal.
What is the name of the middle layer of the uterus?
a) Endometrium
b) Myometrium
c) Perimetrium
b) Myometrium
What hormones are primarily produced by the testes and ovaries?
The testes produce androgens, which are converted into testosterone. The ovaries produce estrogens and progesterone.
What are the key differences between sustentocytes and interstitial cells in the testes?
Sustentocytes support and nourish sperm and produce testicular fluid and ABP, while interstitial cells produce testosterone.
What is…
A comma-shaped organ located on the posterior edge of the testes where sperm mature and are stored.
Epididymis
What is the effect of testosterone on the skin?
Testosterone can cause thickening and oiliness of the skin, potentially leading to acne.
Define:
Meiosis
A type of cell division that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes, necessary for sexual reproduction.
Define:
Polyspermy
The condition where multiple sperm enter an oocyte, which can lead to an abnormal number of chromosomes and typically results in the zygote’s death.
How long can sperm live in the female reproductive tract?
Sperm can live in the female reproductive tract for up to a week.
What is the role of estrogen during the follicular phase?
Estrogen provides negative feedback to the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to inhibit FSH secretion and prevent the maturation of additional follicles.
What does testosterone do?
Stimulate spermatogenesis
What is…
The recess within the labia minora that contains the external openings of the urethra, vagina, and greater vestibular glands.
Vestibule
What is contained in the secretion of the seminal vesicles?
The secretion contains fructose, prostaglandins, fibrinogen, and a yellow pigment that fluoresces under UV light.
How can HCG levels be used to confirm pregnancy?
HCG levels rise in the mother’s bloodstream and urine following fertilization, and its presence can confirm pregnancy through blood tests or home pregnancy tests.
Define:
Accessory Reproductive Organs
Structures that support reproductive functions, including ducts, glands, and external genitalia.
What is…
Three cylindrical columns within the penis that fill with blood during an erection, causing it to become enlarged and rigid.
Erectile Tissue
Define:
Identical Twins
Twins that occur when a single fertilized egg splits into two embryos, resulting in genetically identical offspring.
Define:
Secretory Phase
The phase of the uterine cycle following ovulation, characterized by the secretion of mucus and further thickening of the endometrial lining in preparation for possible implantation.
Which hormone is responsible for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics?
A) Estrogen
B) Progesterone
C) Testosterone
D) FSH
C) Testosterone
What are the fimbriae, and where are they located?
Fimbriae are ciliated, finger-like projections at the distal end of the uterine tubes that sit over the ovary.
What is…
A hormone released by the anterior pituitary that stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
What is…
A type of hormone synthesized from cholesterol, including testosterone, that affects various physiological processes.
Steroid Hormone
Define:
Proliferative Phase
The phase of the uterine cycle following menstruation, during which the endometrial lining thickens and regenerates under the influence of estrogen.
How does the decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels affect the hypothalamus and pituitary gland?
The decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels stimulates the release of GnRH, LH, and FSH, starting the follicular phase of the reproductive cycle anew.