Male Reproductive System Overview

The process of sperm cell development, starting with spermatogonia and ending with mature spermatozoa.

Specialized cells in the testes that support and nourish developing sperm cells.

The first stage of meiosis in spermatogenesis, where a primary spermatocyte divides into two secondary spermatocytes, each with half the number of chromosomes.

The second stage of meiosis in spermatogenesis, where each secondary spermatocyte divides again, resulting in four haploid spermatids.

The mature sperm cell; it has a head containing genetic material, a midpiece with energy-producing mitochondria, and a tail for movement.

The process where a mature egg is released from the ovary into the fallopian tube.

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the ovaries to create follicles containing immature eggs.

The hormone produced by the ovaries that thickens the endometrium (lining of the uterus) to prepare for a fertilized egg.

The phase of the menstrual cycle where the lining of the uterus is shed, leading to menstruation.

The phase of the menstrual cycle where the follicle matures and releases an egg, concluding with ovulation.

The process where a sperm cell combines with an egg cell, marking the beginning of pregnancy.

The hormone released by the pituitary gland that triggers ovulation, moving the mature egg from the follicle to the fallopian tube.

A fertilized egg, formed by the union of a sperm and egg cell.

A pair of small, oval-shaped organs held in place by ligaments. Responsible for producing egg cells (ova) and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Also stores immature egg cells within ovarian follicles.

Fluid-filled sacs within the ovaries where immature egg cells develop and are released. They contain a developing egg cell and its surrounding cells.

The tube that connects the ovaries to the uterus. Serves as the passageway for the egg and the site where fertilization may occur.

The pear-shaped, hollow organ where a fertilized egg grows and develops into a baby. Also called the womb.

The soft, smooth, inner lining of the uterus. It thickens each month to prepare for a fertilized egg and is shed during menstruation if pregnancy doesn't occur.

The lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It stays closed until childbirth and then enlarges to allow passage of the baby.

A hollow, muscular tube that extends from the uterus to the outside of the body. Serves as the passageway for menstrual blood, the birth canal, and the female organ for sexual intercourse.

The monthly cycle that occurs in sexually mature women when an egg is not fertilized. It involves shedding of the uterine lining (menstruation) and hormonal changes.

The male organ used for both urination and sexual intercourse. It's made of spongy tissue and blood vessels, and contains the urethra for both sperm and urine passage.

The male reproductive organs responsible for producing sperm cells and male sex hormones (testosterone).

A comma-shaped structure attached to the testes, where sperm cells are stored and mature.

The pouch of skin that holds the testes, providing temperature regulation for sperm production.

The tube that transports urine from the bladder and also serves as a passageway for ejaculated sperm.

A long tube that carries sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct, playing a vital role in sperm transport.

The structure formed by the vas deferens and seminal vesicles, responsible for transporting sperm to the urethra.

A sac-like structure connected to the vas deferens, secreting an alkaline fluid with fructose that provides energy for sperm.

A walnut-sized gland located below the bladder, responsible for producing a milky fluid that liquefies semen.

Small glands near the base of the penis, secreting an alkaline mucus that protects sperm from the acidity of urine.

The fluid that mixes with sperm cells from the testes and secretions from the accessory glands, forming the ejaculate.

The process of sperm cell production occurring within the seminiferous tubules of the testes.

The process of increasing the penis's length, width, and firmness due to blood flow changes during sexual arousal.