Male Reproductive Tract Overview

The process of an immature egg cell developing into a mature ovum.

Part of the ovarian cycle where follicles develop and mature.

The release of a mature ovum from the ovary.

Structure that forms from the ruptured follicle after ovulation and produces progesterone.

Mature ovarian follicle produces estradiol, which needs both Theca and Granulosa cells along with LH and FSH hormones.

The cyclical changes in the uterus lining in preperation for a possible pregnancy.

Layer of the uterus that is shed during menstruation.

Layer of the uterus beneath the stratum functionalis. It regenerates the functional layer following menstruation.

The process of converting undifferentiated germ cells (spermatogonia) into motile sperm (spermatozoa).

Sperm stem cells, maintaining their number through mitosis, then entering meiosis.

Two rounds of cell division that yield 4 haploid cells (gametes).

Cells resulting from spermatogonia entering meiosis, intermediate stage in sperm development.

Cells resulting from two meiotic rounds, differentiating into sperm.

Mature sperm cells, characterized by motility.

Support cells in the testis, nurturing sperm development.

Cells in the testis responsible for testosterone production.

Accessory glands producing part of the seminal fluid (60%).

Accessory glands contributing 25% of semen volume, with slightly acidic pH.

Accessory glands producing a mucus-like fluid, aiding sperm transport.

Cell division creating two genetically identical cells, important for cell replication.

Final maturation of sperm in the female reproductive tract.

The process of creating female gametes (ova)

Endometrial glands secrete mucus to prepare for implantation.

Degenerates, causing the stratum functionalis shedding (menses).

Preserves corpus luteum, crucial for early pregnancy support.

A typical cycle is 28 days, though it can vary.

Changes in the ovary linked to oocyte maturation.

The first phase of the uterine cycle, lasting about 5 days, marked by the shedding of the uterine lining (stratum functionalis) and the discharge of blood.

The phase of the uterine cycle between menstruation and ovulation, where the dominant follicle matures and estrogen levels rise, causing the uterine lining to thicken.

The phase of the uterine cycle following ovulation, where the corpus luteum forms and secretes progesterone, preparing the uterus for implantation.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone, secreted by the hypothalamus, triggers the release of FSH and LH from the pituitary gland.

Follicle-stimulating hormone, promotes follicle growth and estrogen production in the ovaries.

Luteinizing hormone, triggers ovulation, and promotes the formation of the corpus luteum.

Hormone produced by the corpus luteum, prepares the uterus for implantation and prepares the mammary glands for milk production.

Hormone secreted by the corpus luteum, relaxes the uterus to help facilitate implantation.

Hormone secreted by the ovaries, inhibits the release of FSH from the pituitary gland.

The first phase of the ovarian cycle, characterized by follicle growth and estrogen production, leading up to ovulation.

The first two weeks of development following fertilization, where the zygote undergoes rapid cell division and transforms into a blastocyst.

Weeks 3 through 8 of gestation, characterized by the development of the three primary germ layers, rudiments of all organs and organ systems.

Weeks 9 through 38+ of gestation, where the fetus grows rapidly and organs mature.

A hollow ball of cells that implants in the uterine wall, marking the end of the germinal stage.

The three layers of cells (ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm) that form during the embryonic stage, giving rise to all tissues and organs.

The outermost germ layer, which gives rise to nervous tissue, skin, and some sense organs.

The middle germ layer, which gives rise to connective tissue, muscle, blood, and the circulatory system.

The innermost germ layer, which gives rise to the lining of the digestive and respiratory systems, as well as certain organs.