Lecture Notes: Human Reproductive System

Overview

• Exploration of how humans reproduce.
• Focus on anatomical functions of reproductive organs.
• Discussion split into male and female systems.

Primary Sex Organs (Gonads)

• Male Gonads: Testes
  • Produce testosterone.
  • Located in scrotum.
  • Sperm production (spermatogenesis) occurs in seminiferous tubules.
  • Sperm travels through a series of ducts including vas deferens and urethra.
• Female Gonads: Ovaries
  • Produce egg cells (ova), estrogen, and progesterone.
  • Egg cell maturation process called oogenesis.
  • Ovulation: release of an oocyte.

Male Reproductive System

• External Genitalia:
  • Penis (copulatory organ): Three cylindrical shafts of erectile tissue aid in erection.
  • Scrotum: Holds testes, temperature regulation for sperm production.
• Accessory Glands:
  • Seminal Glands: Produce semen, enhances sperm motility.
  • Prostate: Contracts to add prostatic secretion to ejaculate.
  • Bulbourethral Glands: Produce mucus for lubrication.

Female Reproductive System

• Accessory Ducts and Organs:
  • Uterine tubes (Fallopian tubes): Site of fertilization.
  • Uterus (womb): Hosts fertilized egg, supports fetal development.
    • Composed of parametrium, myometrium, and endometrium.
  • Vagina: Receives penis during intercourse.
  • External Genitalia (Vulva): Includes mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vestibule.
• Mammary Glands:
  • Located in breasts, produce milk during pregnancy.
  • Comprised of lobes and lobules containing alveoli.
  • Milk is transported via lactiferous ducts to lactiferous sinuses.

Conclusion

• This lecture covered the basic structure and function of the human reproductive system.
• Introduced concepts for deeper exploration such as the ovarian cycle and menstrual cycle for future lectures.
• Encouragement to continue learning for those entering medical professions or interested in detailed anatomical functions.

• Contact: Reach out to Professor Dave via email for further questions.