Anatomy & Physiology of the Reproductive System

Anatomy and Physiology of the Reproductive System

• Normal testes are firm, smooth, and egg-shaped; the epididymis can be felt as a firm swelling on the superior aspect of the testes.
• The male reproductive system includes external and internal structures; andrology studies these organs, while gynecology focuses on the female reproductive system.
• The penis consists of three cylindrical masses of erectile tissue: two corpora cavernosa and one corpus spongiosum, with the urethra passing through these, enabling dual function for urinary and reproductive systems.
• Erection is facilitated by parasympathetic nerve activity, causing nitric oxide release, leading to blood vessel dilation and increased blood flow, resulting in engorgement.
• Bulbourethral glands secrete an alkaline fluid to neutralize urethral acidity, aiding sperm survival.
• Semen composition: prostate gland contributes 60%, seminal vesicles 30%, epididymis 5%, and bulbourethral glands 5%.
• The urethra measures 18 to 20 cm, consists of a mucous membrane lining, and plays a role in both urination and reproductive functions.

Female Reproductive System

• The female reproductive system has external and internal components; mammary glands develop from ectodermic tissue during gestation.
• The uterus, 5-7 cm long and weighing about 60 g in a non-pregnant state, has three parts: body (corpus), isthmus, and cervix, functioning in ovum reception, implantation, and fetal protection.
• The uterus expands during pregnancy to accommodate the developing fetus; its lining connects with the fallopian tubes.
• The cervix’s mucus changes throughout the menstrual cycle; it is thick and scant in the first half but becomes thin and copious during ovulation, facilitating sperm survival.

Menstrual Cycle Summary

• Gonadotropic hormones (FSH and LH) stimulate ovarian growth; FSH activates a primordial follicle, leading to estrogen and progesterone production.
• Ovulation occurs around day 14, marked by an LH surge; the mature follicle releases the ovum into the fallopian tube.
• The luteal phase (days 15-28) involves the formation of the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone to maintain the uterine lining; if fertilization does not occur, hormone levels drop, triggering menstruation.

Menstrual Education and Menopause

• Educating both genders about menstruation fosters understanding and reduces myths, helping girls view it positively.
• Menopause typically occurs between ages 40 and 55; it signifies the end of childbearing.
• Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading to menopause; postmenopausal life follows the last menstrual period.
• Symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, osteoporosis, and psychological changes impacted by decreased estrogen levels.
• Hot flashes can occur frequently (20-30 times daily) and last several minutes; remedies include cold drinks and fans.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) was previously common to relieve menopause symptoms but is now used cautiously due to associated health risks.

This quiz explores the anatomy and physiology of the male and female reproductive systems, including key structures such as the testes and epididymis. Understand how these systems, although different, are homologous and stem from the same embryonic origins. Perfect for students studying gynecology and reproductive health.