Biology Chapter 7:14 Reproductive System Flashcards

Reproductive System Key Terms and Definitions

• Scrotum: External pouch that holds the testes, maintaining a lower temperature essential for sperm production.
• Testes: Male reproductive organs that produce sperm and secrete testosterone.
• Epididymis: Structure that stores and matures sperm; also contributes to semen production through fluids.
• Vas (ductus) deferens: Duct that transports sperm from the epididymis; serves as a storage area.
• Seminal vesicles: Glands that produce a nutrient-rich fluid (high in sugar) that nourishes sperm and forms part of semen.
• Ejaculatory duct: Channel conveying sperm and semen through the prostate gland to the urethra.
• Prostate gland: Produces an alkaline fluid that enhances sperm motility and neutralizes the acidic environment of the vagina.
• Urethra: Tube that carries urine from the bladder and semen from the reproductive system, although not simultaneously.
• Prepuce: The foreskin covering the glans of the penis, which may be removed during circumcision.
• Penis: Male organ of copulation that deposits semen in the vagina and facilitates urine elimination.

Male Sterility and Health

• Vas deferens is the duct that, when cut, causes male sterility.
• Importance of testicular self-examination: Key for early detection of testicular cancer; recommended to perform monthly.

Female Reproductive System Key Terms

• Ovary: Female gonads responsible for producing ova and hormones.
• Fimbriae: Fingerlike projections that assist in capturing the ovum and directing it into the fallopian tubes.
• Fallopian tube: Primary site for fertilization of the ovum by sperm.
• Uterus: Muscular organ where fetal development occurs; also involved in menstruation.
• Endometrium: Inner layer of the uterus; site of implantation for fertilized eggs and is shed during menstruation if fertilization does not occur.
• Myometrium: Muscular middle layer of the uterus that contracts during labor.
• Perimetrium: Outer layer of the uterus.

Fertilization and Menstrual Cycle

• Fertilization: The fusion of an ovum and sperm, typically occurring in the fallopian tubes.
• Ovum transport: Two key processes—peristalsis and ciliary action—aid in moving the ovum toward the uterus.
• Menstruation: The shedding of the endometrium occurs if no fertilization of the egg takes place.

External Female Genitalia

• Vulva: Collective term for the external female genitalia.
• Labia majora: Large, outer folds of tissue that protect the vaginal opening.
• Labia minora: Smaller inner folds located within the labia majora.
• Clitoris: Area of erectile tissue located at the junction of the labia minora, sensitive and contributes to sexual arousal.

Breast Health and Disease Prevention

• Breast self-examination (BSE): Essential for the early detection of breast cancer; should be performed monthly after menstruation.
• Preventing HIV: Key strategies include practicing safe sexual behaviors, using protective barriers, and avoiding shared needles.

Reproductive Health Conditions

• Prostatic hypertrophy: Enlargement of the prostate gland, often affecting urinary function.
• Gonorrhea: Sexually transmitted disease (STD) presenting with a greenish-yellow discharge in males.
• Chlamydia: A bacterial STD known for its intracellular parasitic characteristics.
• Pubic lice: Parasites spread through sexual contact.
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): Inflammation affecting the cervix, endometrium, fallopian tubes, and sometimes ovaries.
• Syphilis: STD caused by a spirochete bacterium, leading to serious health issues if untreated.
• AIDS: Acquired immune deficiency syndrome, caused by the HIV virus.
• HIV: Human immunodeficiency virus, leading to AIDS and attacking the immune system.
• Endometriosis: Condition characterized by the abnormal growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus.
• Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, often causing pain and swelling.
• Orchitis: Inflammation of the testes, potentially leading to fertility issues.
• Herpes: Viral STD causing blister-like lesions and ulcers.

Test your knowledge of the reproductive system with these flashcards covering key terms such as scrotum, testes, and epididymis. Perfect for students learning about male reproductive anatomy and its functions. Improve your understanding and retention of important concepts in biology.