Reproductive System Overview

Reproductive System Overview

• Reproduction is essential for the survival of species, allowing plants and animals to produce offspring.
• The reproductive system consists of a collective group of organs and hormone networks that facilitate the creation of new life.

Functions of the Female Reproductive System

• Produces ova (eggs) necessary for reproduction.
• Incubates and nourishes fertilized eggs until they fully develop.
• Secretes female sex hormones that regulate the reproductive cycle.

Parts of the Female Reproductive System

• Ovaries

  • Two oval-shaped glands located on either side of the uterus.
  • Responsible for hormone production and storage of eggs.

• Fallopian Tubes

  • Narrow tubes that guide fertilized eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.

• Uterus

  • Hollow, pear-shaped organ located in the lower abdomen.
  • Known as the "womb," it holds the fetus during pregnancy and develops a rich lining each month to nourish a potential developing fetus.

• Cervix

  • The lower, narrow part of the uterus that leads to the vagina.
  • Functions to allow menstrual blood to exit and permits sperm to enter.

• Vagina

  • The birth canal connecting the cervix to the exterior of the body.

• Vulva

  • The external portion of the female genitalia.

Functions of the Male Reproductive System

• Produces and transports sperm, essential for male reproduction.
• Discharges sperm into the female reproductive tract during sexual intercourse.
• Secretes male sex hormones that maintain male reproductive health.

Parts of the Male Reproductive System

• Penis

  • Comprised of the shaft and head, with a urethral opening for sperm delivery during intercourse.

• Scrotum

  • A sac-like structure that houses the testicles, blood vessels, and nerves; it regulates temperature for sperm production.

• Testicles (Testes)

  • Oval organs located in the scrotum, responsible for testosterone and sperm production.

• Epididymis

  • A tightly-coiled tube attached to each testicle where sperm matures and is stored.

• Ductus (Vas) Deferens

  • A muscular tube that carries mature sperm from the epididymis to the urethra for ejaculation.