Name: human reproductive organs and hormones
Uploaded: 2024-12-20T14:49:44.000Z
Duration: 1 min 31 s
Channel: JoVE

K12 Standards

ohios-learning-standards-and-model-curriculum

Ohio’s Learning Standards and Model Curriculum

9-12

Human Anatomy and Physiology

Reproduction

Reproductive System

Overview of the Reproductive

System

The reproductive system produces specialized cells known as gametes to conceive offspring.
The gonads are the primary reproductive organs that produce gametes and sex hormones.
The testes are the male gonads, which produce gametes called spermatozoa and the male hormone, testosterone. In contrast, female gonads, or ovaries, produce oocytes and female sex hormones: estrogen and progesterone.
Besides the gonads, the ducts, glands, and external genitalia form the accessory reproductive organs.
In males, the duct system transports sperm for ejaculation outside the body, whereas in females, it facilitates the transport of eggs, supports fertilization, and nurtures the developing embryo.
The external genitalia in both sexes play a key role in reproductive function through sexual intercourse. Additionally, the male genitalia enable urination, while the female genitalia are vital for childbirth and menstrual flow.
In both sexes, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is a critical regulator of the reproductive system.
The gonadotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, which regulate the p

overview of the reproductive

system

The reproductive system generates offspring, ensuring the survival of the species. In humans, the reproductive system is complex and involves a variety of organs and hormones that work together to ensure successful reproduction.
The gonads, or primary reproductive organs, produce gametes and sex hormones. In males, the testes produce spermatozoa and testosterone, which is responsible for developing secondary male sex characteristics, including a deeper voice, larger muscles, facial and body hair growth, and libido.
In females, the gonads are the ovaries, which produce oocytes, estrogen, and progesterone. Estrogen plays a role in the development of secondary female sex characteristics, such as breasts and broader hips. Progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy and helps to maintain a healthy pregnancy.
In addition to the gonads, the accessory reproductive organs are essential for successful reproduction. In males, the duct system carries sperm from the testes to the outside of the body during ejaculation. In females, the internal structures, such as the uterus and cervix, are directly involved in menstruation and childbirth, while external genitalia play roles in protection and sexual stimulation.
Sexual intercourse involves the distinct external genitalia in both sexes. In males, the penis is responsible for delivering sperm to the female reproductive system during intercourse. The male genitalia also plays a role in urination, allowing urine to pass out of the body. In females, the clitoris is the primary organ for sexual stimulation, while the vagina serves as the passageway for intercourse and childbirth.
The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is a critical regulator of the reproductive system in both sexes. The hypothalamus, located in the brain, releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. These hormones regulate the production of sex hormones and gametes.
In conclusion, the reproductive system is an essential part of human biology, responsible for creating new life and ensuring the survival of our species. Understanding its components and functions is crucial for maintaining reproductive health and treating reproductive disorders.

The reproductive system produces specialized cells known as gametes to conceive offspring.
The gonads are the primary reproductive organs that produce ...

Education

JoVE Core

Anatomy and Physiology

Unit 1

The Reproductive System

KEY TERMS AND CONCEPTS

human reproductive organs and hormones

The human reproductive system uses organs and hormones to produce offspring. It supports reproduction and helps ensure the survival of the species. In humans, this system includes the gonads, accessory reproductive organs, and hormone signals that work together.

The gonads are the primary reproductive organs. In males, the testes produce spermatozoa and testosterone. Testosterone helps develop secondary male sex characteristics, including a deeper voice, larger muscles, facial and body hair growth, and libido. In females, the ovaries produce oocytes, estrogen, and progesterone. Estrogen helps develop secondary female sex characteristics, such as breasts and broader hips. Progesterone prepares the uterus for pregnancy and helps maintain a healthy pregnancy.

Accessory reproductive organs also play essential roles in reproduction. In males, the duct system carries sperm from the testes to the outside of the body during ejaculation. The penis delivers sperm to the female reproductive system during intercourse, and it also allows urine to pass out of the body. In females, the uterus and cervix are directly involved in menstruation and childbirth. The external genitalia help with protection and sexual stimulation.

Sexual intercourse involves the distinct external genitalia in both sexes. In females, the clitoris is the primary organ for sexual stimulation, and the vagina serves as the passageway for intercourse and childbirth. These structures work with the internal organs to support reproduction.

The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis helps regulate the reproductive system in both sexes. The hypothalamus in the brain releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone. This signals the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. These hormones regulate the production of sex hormones and gametes. Understanding these parts and signals is important for reproductive health and for treating reproductive disorders.

Human Reproductive Organs and Hormones

The human reproductive system uses organs and hormones to produce offspring. It supports reproduction and helps ensure the survival of the species. In humans, this system includes the gonads, accessory reproductive organs, and hormone signals that work together. The gonads are the primary reproductive organs. In males, the testes produce spermatozoa and testosterone. Testosterone helps develop secondary male sex characteristics, including a deeper voice, larger muscles, facial and body hair...

testes: gross anatomy

Scrotal Support for Testes Function

The testes are the male gonads, also called testicles. They sit in the scrotum, a sac-like structure below the penis. Their location helps explain how the body protects them and keeps them at the right temperature for sperm production. Each testis is wrapped by the tunica albuginea, a dense connective tissue layer. This layer gives the organ structure and protection. Outside it is the tunica vaginalis, a serous membrane that reduces friction with nearby structures. The scrotum has its own...

testes: histology

Testes: Sperm Production and Temperature

The testes are built for sperm production and hormone release. A tough fibrous layer called the tunica albuginea covers each testis. It also sends septa, or fibrous partitions, inward to divide the tissue into lobules. Each lobule contains 1 to 3 tightly coiled seminiferous tubules, where sperm are made. These tubules join into a network at the back of the testis called the rete testis. From there, the pathway continues through 15 to 20 efferent ductules to the epididymis. Cells along the...

spermatogenesis

How Sperm Cells Form in the Testes

Sperm cells form in the seminiferous tubules of the testes through spermatogenesis. This process starts from undifferentiated stem cells and produces mature sperm cells that can fertilize an egg. It is essential for making functional sperm. Spermatogenesis has three main stages: mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. During mitosis, spermatogonia, or stem cells, divide into two identical daughter cells called type A and type B spermatogonia. Type A spermatogonium stays in contact with the...

accessory ducts of the male
reproductive system

accessory-ducts-of-the-male-reproductive-system

Sperm Pathway in the Male Reproductive System

The sperm pathway in the male reproductive system includes the epididymis, vasa deferens, ejaculatory ducts, and urethra. These accessory ducts help sperm mature, move, and leave the body during ejaculation. They also help recycle damaged sperm and absorb fluid made by the seminiferous tubules. The epididymis is a small, comma-shaped organ at the back of each testicle. It is about 4 cm long, but its tightly coiled tube is about 7 meters long when unraveled. The epididymis has three parts: the...

penis

Penis Anatomy and Function

The penis is an external male reproductive organ that also helps with urination. It has three main regions: the glans penis, the body, and the root. Each region has a specific structure and role. The glans penis, or head, is the end of the penis. It contains the external urethral orifice, which is the opening for urine and semen to leave the body. The glans is covered by the prepuce, or foreskin, and is especially sensitive. The body of the penis, also called the shaft, extends from the glans.

sperm transport

Sperm Path from Testis to Ejaculation

Sperm move through a series of tubes from the testis to the urethra before ejaculation. Their journey begins in the seminiferous tubules, where Sertoli cells make fluid that helps push non-motile sperm forward. The sperm then pass through the straight tubules and into the rete testis, which serves as the first connected pathway in this transport route. From the rete testis, sperm travel into the efferent ductules and then into the epididymis. The epididymis is where sperm mature. During this...

accessory glands of the male
reproductive system

accessory-glands-of-the-male-reproductive-system

Sperm Pathway Through Male Reproductive Ducts

Sperm travel through a series of male reproductive ducts before they leave the body. These ducts include the epididymides, vasa deferentia, ejaculatory ducts, and urethra. They help sperm mature, store, and move from the testes to the urethra for ejaculation. The epididymis is a small, comma-shaped organ at the back of each testicle. It has three parts: the head, body, and tail. The head connects to the efferent ductules of the testis, which carry sperm away from the testes. The epididymis is...

sperm structure and semen

composition

How Sperm Move Through Semen

Sperm move through semen, a fluid that supports their travel during ejaculation. A typical ejaculation releases about 2 to 5 milliliters of semen. This fluid contains mature sperm and secretions from accessory glands. A mature sperm cell is about 60 micrometers long and has four main parts: the head, neck, midpiece, and tail. The head is flattened and tapered, and it is about 4 to 5 micrometers long. It contains a nucleus with condensed chromosomes and an acrosome, which is a cap-like...

male sexual response: erection &amp;

ejaculation

male-sexual-response-erection-ejaculation

How Erection and Semen Release Occur

Erection and semen release are part of the male sexual response. Sexual stimulation can come from physical touch, sight, or sound. These signals activate a parasympathetic reflex in the sacral region of the spinal cord. The reflex causes nitric oxide, or NO, to be released. NO widens the arterioles in the penis and increases blood flow to the erectile tissues, the corpora cavernosa and corpus spongiosum. As these tissues fill with blood, the veins are compressed. This helps keep blood from...

testosterone: functions and regulation

Testosterone and Male Reproductive Control

Testosterone and male reproductive control depend on a hormone signal from the brain. The hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone, or GnRH. GnRH tells the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). LH acts on Leydig cells in the testes. These cells make and release testosterone. At the same time, FSH works on Sertoli cells in the seminiferous tubules. Sertoli cells release androgen-binding protein, or ABP, which binds testosterone...

external female genitals

Vulva Anatomy and External Structures

The vulva includes the external structures of the female reproductive system. These parts sit outside the vagina and form the outer opening area. The main structures include the mons pubis, labia, clitoris, hymen, vaginal opening, and Bartholin's glands. The mons pubis is a cushion of fatty tissue that lies over the pubic bone. After puberty, this area usually develops hair. Behind it are the labia majora, which are the larger skin folds. They are usually covered with hair. Inside the labia...

vagina

Vaginal Canal Structure and Microbes

The vaginal canal is a muscular tube about 10 cm long. It serves as the entryway to the female reproductive system. It also allows menstrual flow and childbirth to pass through. The inner wall of the vagina has folds called rugae. The top end is the fornix, which connects with the protruding cervical part of the uterus. The canal has three layers: an external fibrous layer, a middle muscular layer, and an inner lining with mucosal rugae. These features help the vagina stretch during sexual...

ovaries

Ovarian Cortex and Follicle Development

The ovaries are paired organs in the pelvic region. They are about the size of almonds and measure about 2 to 3 centimeters long. Each ovary is supported by the mesovarium, a peritoneal extension that also links it to the broad ligament. The suspensory ligament adds support and carries blood and lymphatic vessels. The ovarian ligament connects each ovary to the uterus. The outer surface of the ovary has a layer of cuboidal cells. This layer forms a protective epithelium. Beneath it is the...

ovarian cycle

How the Ovary Repeats Each Cycle

The ovarian cycle repeats each month and drives key changes in the menstrual cycle. It has two main phases: the follicular phase and the luteal phase. Ovulation, which is triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), separates these phases. The follicular phase is the more variable part of the cycle and averages about 14 days. A common cycle length is 28 days, but it can range from 21 to 40 days. Most of that variation comes from differences in the follicular phase and the timing of...

oogenesis

Egg Cell Formation and Meiosis in Oogenesis

Oogenesis is the process of egg cell formation in the ovaries. These female gametes are essential for female fertility. The sequence starts during fetal development, when diploid oogonia in the developing ovaries divide by mitosis to form primary oocytes. By birth, the primary oocytes have entered prophase I of meiosis. They then stop, or arrest, at this stage until puberty. Each primary oocyte is surrounded by pre-granulosa cells, which form a primordial follicle. By puberty, the ovaries...

folliculogenesis

Ovarian Follicle Development and Ovulation

Ovarian follicle development is the process that prepares an egg for ovulation in the ovary. It takes place in the ovarian cortex, where oogenesis, or egg development, occurs. This process is important for female reproductive health and begins before birth. During fetal development, primordial follicles form. Each primordial follicle contains a primary oocyte in the center and a single layer of flat, squamous pre-granulosa cells around it. These follicles stay dormant in late prophase I of...

hormonal control of the ovarian cycle

Ovarian Cycle Hormones and Ovulation

The ovarian cycle is controlled by hormones from the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovaries. This hormone network is called the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. It helps the body release a mature oocyte, or egg cell, for reproduction. Before puberty, the hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in low-frequency, low-amplitude pulses. Because the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is still immature, estrogen levels stay low and a fully functional ovarian cycle does...

uterine tubes

How Fallopian Tubes Move the Egg

The uterine tubes, also called fallopian tubes, move the oocyte from the ovary to the uterus. Each tube is about 10 to 13 cm long. It is divided into the infundibulum, ampulla, isthmus, and interstitial part, which is also called the intramural segment. The infundibulum has a funnel shape. It ends in finger-like fimbriae that reach toward the peritoneal cavity. During ovulation, these fimbriae extend over the ovaries and help capture the released oocyte. The ampulla makes up more than half of...

uterus and cervix

Uterus Shape, Support, and Cervical Openings

The uterus and cervix are key parts of the female reproductive system. The uterus, also called the womb, is built to support implantation and the growth of an embryo. It is shaped like a hollow pear and sits between the urinary bladder and the rectum. The uterus is held in place inside the pelvic cavity by paired broad ligaments on each side. It is also stabilized by three pairs of suspensory ligaments: the cardinal, uterosacral, and round ligaments. These structures help keep the uterus...

histology of the uterus

Uterine Wall Layers and Blood Flow

The uterus has three main histological layers: the perimetrium, myometrium, and endometrium. Each layer has a different structure and role in the pelvic cavity. Together, they make up the uterine wall. The outermost layer is the perimetrium. It is a thin serous membrane. On the sides, it is connected with the broad ligament, which helps anchor the uterus in the pelvic cavity. The thickest layer is the myometrium. It is made mostly of bundles of smooth muscle tissue. These muscle contractions...

the menstrual cycle

Stages of the Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is a monthly set of changes in the uterine endometrium, especially its functional layer called the stratum functionalis. It prepares the uterus for a possible pregnancy. In most cases, the cycle lasts about 21 to 35 days and averages 28 days. It also matches the ovarian cycle and is controlled by changing levels of the ovarian hormones estrogen and progesterone. The first stage is the menstrual phase, which usually occurs from days 1 to 5. During this time, the stratum...

menses phase

Menstrual Cycle Shedding and Cramps

The menstrual phase is the first stage of the uterine cycle. It is counted as day one of the cycle and usually lasts about five days. During this time, the uterine lining sheds its functional layer, called the stratum functionalis. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum breaks down. This causes estrogen and progesterone levels to drop sharply. The hormone decrease leads to prostaglandin release, which makes the uterine spiral arterioles constrict. When these small arteries narrow,...

proliferative phase

Endometrial Rebuilding Before Ovulation

The proliferative phase is the time when the endometrium rebuilds after menstruation. In a typical 28-day cycle, it lasts about 6 to 13 days. During this stage, estrogen from the developing ovarian follicle guides the repair and thickening of the uterine lining. The stratum basale, or basal layer of the endometrium, is not affected by menstruation. This layer includes the basal parts of the uterine glands. Stem cells in the stratum basale divide by mitosis and regenerate the stratum...

secretory phase

Uterus Prepares for Implantation

The secretory phase is the part of the menstrual cycle when the uterus prepares for a possible embryo implantation. It usually runs from day 14 to day 28 in a typical 28-day cycle. This phase begins right after ovulation, when an egg has been released. After ovulation, the corpus luteum forms. The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine structure, which means it makes hormones for a short time. It releases progesterone and estrogens. These hormones cause the endometrial glands to grow and coil,...

disorders of the male reproductive system

disorders-of-the-male-reproductive-system

Male Reproductive Health Problems and Signs

Male reproductive health problems include testicular cancer, prostate disorders, and erectile dysfunction. These conditions can affect cancer risk, urination, and sexual function. Recognizing common signs can help with earlier medical care. Testicular cancer is especially common in younger men, especially those ages 20 to 35. It often appears as a painless mass in the testicles. Some people may also notice a feeling of heaviness or a dull ache. Prostate disorders are another major concern...

disorders of the female reproductive system

disorders-of-the-female-reproductive-system

Female Reproductive Disorders and Symptoms

Female reproductive disorders include PMS, PMDD, endometriosis, and several cancers. These conditions can cause pain, bleeding changes, mood symptoms, and other health problems. Some are cyclical, while others can develop over time and need medical testing. Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD, are cyclical conditions that affect the days before menstruation. They can cause physical and emotional distress. Common symptoms include edema, mood swings, and...

hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle

hormonal-regulation-of-the-menstrual-cycle

How FSH, LH, and Progesterone Shape the Cycle

The menstrual cycle is controlled by GnRH, FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone. GnRH, or gonadotrophin-releasing hormone, starts a pulsatile release pattern at puberty. This pattern tells the anterior pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). GnRH pulses change in speed and strength across the cycle. Faster pulses favor LH release, while slower pulses favor FSH release. FSH acts on granulosa cells in ovarian follicles and helps them multiply.

the mammary glands

Milk Secretion in the Breast

The female breast contains mammary glands that produce milk. It lies in front of the pectoralis major and serratus anterior muscles. A dense connective tissue layer, called fascia, links the breast to these muscles and helps support it. The nipple is the pigmented projection where milk leaves the breast. Tiny openings in the nipple connect to lactiferous ducts, which carry milk outward. The areola is the darker circle of skin around the nipple. It looks rough because it contains modified...

development of the sexual organs in the embryo and fetus

development-of-the-sexual-organs-in-the-embryo-and-fetus

Embryonic Sex Differentiation and Reproductive Ducts

Embryonic sex differentiation begins with a bipotential stage. At this point, the early embryo can form either male or female reproductive organs. During the fifth week of development, gonadal ridges grow from the intermediate mesoderm. Nearby, two duct systems are present: the mesonephric ducts, also called Wolffian ducts, and the paramesonephric ducts, also called Müllerian ducts. These ducts form the starting point for the male and female reproductive systems. Both connect distally to the...

signs of puberty

How Puberty Changes the Body

Puberty changes the body through hormone signals that prepare the body for reproduction. It usually begins between ages 8 and 13 in girls and 9 and 14 in boys, although genetics, environment, and overall health can affect timing. During this stage, secondary sexual characteristics develop and reproductive potential is reached. Puberty starts with pulses of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, or GnRH, from the brain. These pulses trigger rises in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating...

in vitro fertilization

IVF Egg Retrieval and Embryo Transfer

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology that helps eggs and sperm meet in a lab before an embryo is placed in the uterus. It is used for people and couples who are having trouble conceiving. The process begins with ovarian stimulation, which uses hormone medicines from a reproductive endocrinologist to help the ovaries produce multiple eggs instead of the single egg made in a natural cycle. After the ovaries are stimulated, the next step is oocyte retrieval, or egg...

menopause

Hormonal Changes After Reproductive Years

Hormonal changes after the reproductive years affect both women and men. In women, menopause marks the end of fertility and usually occurs between the fifth and sixth decade of life. In men, reproductive function declines more gradually, so fertility often lasts much longer. In menopause, the ovarian follicle pool is exhausted. The ovaries become less responsive even when follicle stimulating hormone, or FSH, and luteinizing hormone, or LH, are high. Estrogen production then drops, which helps...

birth control methods

How Contraceptives Prevent Pregnancy

Contraceptives prevent pregnancy through surgery, hormones, barrier devices, and cycle tracking. Some methods stop sperm and egg from meeting, while others change ovulation or the uterine environment. The best choice depends on how the method works and how long it is meant to last. Vasectomy is a surgical form of male sterilization. In this procedure, the vasa deferentia are cut and sealed so sperm cannot mix with semen during ejaculation. Vasectomy does not affect the testes’ ability to make...

infertility in males

Male Fertility Causes and Treatments

Male fertility problems can come from hormone issues, sperm production problems, blocked sperm transport, or an unknown cause. These problems affect different steps in the reproductive process and can make it harder to achieve pregnancy. Hormone balance is one major factor. Endocrine imbalance can happen with hypogonadism, Klinefelter syndrome, or pituitary disorders. These conditions can change hormone levels and lower sperm production. Some causes involve the testes themselves. Testicular...

infertility in females

Causes and Treatments of Female Infertility

Female infertility is the inability to conceive after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It affects about 10–15% of couples worldwide. In many cases, the main problem is an ovulatory disorder, which keeps the ovary from releasing an egg. Ovulatory disorders can take several forms. These include hypothalamic amenorrhea, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian failure, and hyperprolactinemic anovulation disorders. Hormonal imbalance can also play a role, especially when...

sexually transmitted infections

Common STI Symptoms and Treatments

Sexually transmitted infections are caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and spread mainly through unsafe sexual contact. If they are not treated, they can lead to serious health problems. Many STIs also have few or no early symptoms, so infections can go unnoticed. Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and is the most common STI in the United States. It lives inside human cells to reproduce. In men, it can cause urethritis, which may lead to discharge, burning during...

key terms and concepts

Explore how the testes, ovaries, accessory organs, and brain hormones work together in human reproduction, from gamete production to childbirth.

Human Reproductive Organs and Hormones | JoVE K12

anatomy and physiology

JoVE Core Anatomy and Physiology showcases the anatomical and physiological details of the human body in comprehensive, clear, and engaging video animations. This collection of lessons focuses on the structures, components, functions, and requirements of the human body. It is complemented by scientist-in-action videos that demonstrate the application of this knowledge in real-world medical and research settings.

Alabama Course of Study Science

from-molecules-to-organisms-structures-and-processes

From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes

9-12.HA.1.12

Florida Department of Education

High School

Life Science

SC.912.L.14

SC.912.L.14.33

SC.912.L.16

SC.912.L.16.13

new-york-state-science-learning-standards

New York State Science Learning Standards

Inheritance and Variation of Traits

HS-LS1-8.

Testes: Gross Anatomy

The paired testes are the male gonads.
Each testis, weighing 10 to 15 grams, measures about 5 cm long, 3 cm wide, and 2.5 cm thick.
The tunica albuginea, ...

Testes: Histology

A tough, fibrous membrane, the tunica albuginea, covers the testes, extending inward to form fibrous partitions or septa, dividing them into internal ...

Spermatogenesis

Spermatogenesis begins at puberty and continues late into life, producing sperm in the seminiferous tubules.
It has three main stages &#8212; mitosis, ...

Accessory Ducts of the Male
Reproductive System

The male reproductive system is a complex network of organs and tissues that work together to produce and transport sperm. The epididymis, vasa deferens, ...

Penis

The penis, part of the external male genitalia, is involved in both sexual reproduction and urination.
Its cylindrical shape has three primary regions ...

Sperm Transport

Inside the seminiferous tubule of the testis, fluid from the Sertoli cells pushes the non-motile sperm through a series of straight tubules into the rete ...

Accessory Glands of the Male
Reproductive System

The accessory ducts involved in sperm maturation and transportation include the epididymides, vasa deferentia, ejaculatory ducts, and urethra. These ducts ...

Sperm Structure and Semen

Composition

Males release 2-5 ml of semen, a mixture of mature sperm and accessory gland fluids.
The 60 &#956;m long mature sperm cells consist of the head, neck, ...

Male Sexual Response: Erection &amp;

Ejaculation

In response to the sexual stimuli, the parasympathetic neurons stimulate the local release of nitric oxide, or NO, dilating the arterioles in the penis. ...

Testosterone: Functions and Regulation

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH and luteinizing hormone, ...

External Female Genitals

The external female genitalia are structures located outside the vagina.
They include the mons pubis, labia, clitoris, and vestibule structures and are ...

Vagina

The vaginal canal is a tubular structure averaging about 10 cm in length that acts as the entryway to the female reproductive system and the passageway ...

Ovaries

The ovaries are paired glands fastened on either side of the uterus with the broad, suspensory, and ovarian ligaments.
Each ovary features a hilum, where ...

Ovarian Cycle

The menstrual cycle includes a critical component known as the ovarian cycle, which undergoes two main phases each month&#8212;the follicular phase and ...

Oogenesis

Oogenesis involves the formation of egg cells, or female gametes, in the ovaries.
In fetal development, diploid oogonia in the ovaries divides mitotically ...

Folliculogenesis

Folliculogenesis is the maturation of ovarian follicles in the ovarian cortex, essential sites for oogenesis.
During fetal development,&#160; a single ...

Disorders of the Female Reproductive System

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, is a cyclical condition marked by emotional and physical distress during the postovulatory phase of the female reproductive ...

Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle

The ovarian cycle, a monthly event in reproductive-age women, is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis to ensure a mature oocyte is ...

The Mammary Glands

The female breast is a hemispheric projection of variable size positioned anterior to the pectoralis major and serratus anterior muscles. A fascia layer ...

Uterine Tubes

The uterine or fallopian tubes are 10 to 13-cm long passageways on either side of the uterus.
Each tube is divided into the infundibulum, ampulla, and ...

Development of the Sexual Organs in the Embryo and Fetus

The human embryo is bipotential, allowing the formation of either male or female reproductive organs.
During the fifth week of embryonic development, the ...

Uterus and Cervix

The uterus, commonly called the womb, is a vital reproductive organ in females designed to provide a nurturing environment for the implantation and growth ...

Reproductive System

Content elaboration: The reproductive system is comprised of internal and external organs and hormones. The ovaries and testes produce gametes that fuse to form a zygote, a single cell that develops into an embryo and eventually an adult. A comparison of male and female anatomy should be explored. The female body has the function of providing protection and nourishment for the developing fetus until birth. If all is successful, a new generation of offspring will occur. The processes of the reproductive system include oogenesis, spermatogenesis and fertilization. Additional processes can include lactation and menstruation. Homeostatic imbalances are explored. These include, but are not limited to, infertility, chromosomal disorders, endometriosis, cancer, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and sexually transmitted diseases (STD's). Investigations are used to understand and explain the reproductive system in a variety of inquiry and design scenarios that can incorporate evolutionary concepts, scientific reasoning, comparative analysis, communication skills and real-world applications. Note: At this level, a detailed description of embryological development is not required. The focus is on the structure and function of the reproductive organs.

Human Reproductive Organs and Hormones

Description

Transcript

Tags

More videos by Standards