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Learn about the key stages of human reproductive system development, from the formation of gametes to puberty. Discover how male and female reproductive organs develop and the role of hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
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The Reproductive System Dr. Paul A. Rodriguez
Reproduction • formation of new individuals involving vertebrate gametes - ♀ ova - ♂ spermatozoa • fusion of sperm and egg (ovum) is sexual • fusion of sperm and egg results in a zygote • in humans and other vertebrates, the reproductive system produces, stores, and releases specialized sex cells called gametes • gametes form and are ready for fertilization following a period of sexual development
Embryological Development • the first six weeks of development for humans - embryo • female and male embryos are identical in appearance
The Seventh Week + • Primary reproductive organs form - testes (male) - ovaries (female) • testes- endocrine glands which produce the male hormone TESTOSTERONE - stimulate formation of scrotum and penis • ovaries- endocrine glands which produce the female hormone ESTROGEN - stimulate formation of uterus, cervix, vagina and labia (minora and majora)
At Birth + • gonads (testes and ovaries) continue to produce small amounts of sex hormones: luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) that continue to influence development of reproductive organs
Puberty • period of rapid growth and sexual maturation during which the reproductive system becomes fully functional • at the level of the CNS - the hypothalamus signals the pituitary gland to produce increased levels of hormones that will affect gonads • FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) • LH (luteinizing hormone)