Lecture on Human Reproduction System

Introduction

• Focus on AIT's version 7 Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Topic: The Reproductive System
• Purpose: Facilitate mating, genetic combination, reproduction

Reproductive System Overview

• Primary Internal Reproductive Organs: Gonads (testes and ovaries)
• Function: Produce sex hormones, gametes (sperm and eggs)
• Includes: Glands, ducts, external genitalia, brain areas supporting function

Gametes

• Definition: Haploid cells produced via meiosis
• Difference: Unlike diploid body cells produced by mitosis
• Male Gametes: Sperm cells
• Female Gametes: Egg cells
• Fertilization: Union of sperm and egg forms a zygote leading to embryonic development

Male Reproductive System

Overview

• Primary Organ: Testes (produce testosterone)
• Location: Testes, epididymis, lower spermatic cord within the scrotum

Scrotum

• Structure: Skin pouch with two compartments separated by septum
• Function: Optimal sperm development temperature

Testis

• Layers: Inner (tunica albuginea) and Outer (tunica vaginalis)
• Internal Division: Lobules with seminiferous tubules
• Sperm Production: Spermatogenesis in seminiferous tubules

Sperm Pathway

• Conduct Path: Seminiferous tubules → Straight tubule → Rete testis → Epididymis
• Storage & Maturation: Epididymis
• Ejaculation Path: Vas deferens → Ejaculatory duct → Urethra → Penis

Accessory Glands

• Seminal Glands: Produce semen, mix with sperm
• Prostate Gland: Activates sperm
• Bulbourethral Glands: Produce lubricating mucus

Female Reproductive System

Overview

• Primary Organs: Ovaries (produce eggs, estrogen, progesterone)
• Structure: Encased in tunica albuginea, covered by germinal epithelium

Oogenesis

• Process: Maturation of egg cells
• Follicular Development: Primordial → Vesicular follicle
• Ovulation: Release of mature egg into Fallopian tubes

Fertilization

• Typical Location: Fallopian tubes
• Journey: Fertilized egg implants in uterine wall (womb)

External Genitalia (Vulva)

• Components:
  • Mons pubis
  • Labia majora and minora
  • Vestibule (houses urethral and vaginal openings)

Endocrine-Reproductive System Link

Hormones

• Hypothalamus-Pituitary Connection:
  • Hypothalamus: Produces hormones, regulates pituitary gland
  • Pituitary: Stores/releases oxytocin, produces reproductive hormones (FSH, LH)
• Gonadal Hormones:
  • Ovaries: Estrogen, progesterone
  • Testes: Androgens (testosterone)

Functions

• Estrogen & Progesterone: Female secondary sex characteristics, uterine lining, fetal development
• Testosterone: Male secondary sex characteristics, sperm production

Conclusion

• Understanding of the reproductive system is crucial for exams
• Resources available for deeper study

Note: Visit Nurse Chun's store for additional resources, and feel free to ask questions for further clarification.