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Overview of Human Reproductive Systems

May 3, 2025

Lecture Notes: Human Reproductive System - Chapter 15

Introduction

  • The class is a continuation and revision of concepts from Form 1 regarding reproduction.
  • Chapter 15 is the last chapter for Form 4, important for Form 5 students.
  • Today's lecture focuses on the reproductive systems, whereas next week's will be more technical.

Human Reproductive System

  • Humans reproduce sexually with distinct male and female reproductive systems.

Female Reproductive System

  • Key Parts: Ovary, Fallopian Tube, Uterus, Cervix, Vagina
  • Ovary:
    • Produces ovum and female hormones regulating menstrual cycle.
  • Uterus:
    • Muscular organ for fetus development.
    • Has thick muscular walls and the endometrium (rich in blood vessels).
    • Expands during pregnancy and contracts during childbirth.
  • Fallopian Tube:
    • Connects ovary to uterus; site where fertilization occurs.
    • Lined with cilia to help ovum move.
  • Cervix:
    • Narrow opening to the uterus, dilates during childbirth.
    • Secretes mucus to assist sperm movement.
  • Vagina:
    • Connects external body to uterus.
    • Pathway for childbirth and menstrual flow.

Male Reproductive System

  • Key Parts: Urethra, Penis, Seminal Vesicle, Prostate Gland, Vas Deferens, Testes
  • Seminal Vesicle:
    • Produces fluid rich in nutrients for sperm, forms part of semen.
  • Prostate Gland:
    • Secretes fluid to activate sperm.
  • Testes:
    • Produce sperm and testosterone.
    • Located in the scrotum to maintain lower temperature for sperm production.
  • Urethra (Male):
    • Common pathway for urine and sperm.
  • Penis:
    • Muscular organ that delivers sperm.
  • Scrotum:
    • Skin sac that holds testes.
    • Testes descend into the scrotum shortly after birth.
  • Sperm Duct (Vas Deferens):
    • Transports sperm from testes to seminal vesicle.

Conclusion

  • Today's class focused on the basic structure and function of male and female reproductive systems.
  • Next session will cover gametogenesis (sperm and ovum formation).

Miscellaneous

  • Important to understand reproductive health issues such as prostate and cervical cancer.
  • Encouragement to study hard for upcoming exams and use the lecture notes for review.