Anatomy and Physiology Overview

1. Anatomy and Physiology Overview • The female reproductive system consists of a left and right ovary, which are the female's primary sex organs, and the following accessory sex organs: • Two fallopian tubes • Uterus • Vagina • Vulva • Two breasts

2. Figure 17.2Female organs of reproduction and associated structures.

3. Figure 17.2 (continued)Female organs of reproduction and associated structures.

4. Fallopian Tubes • Fertilization • 23 chromosomes from the male combine with the 23 chromosomes from the female. • Generally occurs within 24 hours following ovulation and usually takes place in the fallopian tube. • A single sperm penetrates the ovum, and the resulting cell is called a zygote.

5. Ovaries • Anterior lobe of pituitary gland primarily controls functional activity of ovaries. • FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone): instrumental in development of ovarian follicles. • LH (luteinizing hormone): stimulates development of the corpus luteum, a small yellow mass of cells that develops within a ruptured ovarian follicle.

6. Ovaries • The ovaries have two major functions: • The production of ova • Each month a graafian follicle ruptures on the ovarian cortex, and an ovum discharges into the pelvic cavity, where it enters the fallopian tube. • This process is known as ovulation. • In an average normal woman, more than 400 ova may be produced during her reproductive years.

7. Ovaries • The ovaries have two major functions: • The production of hormones • The ovary is also an endocrine gland, producing estrogen and progesterone. • Estrogen • Female sex hormone secreted by the ovarian follicles. • Progesterone • A steroid hormone secreted by the corpus luteum. • Important in the maintenance of pregnancy.

8. Menstrual Cycle • The menstrual cycle occurs every 21 to 40 days and has three phases: • Follicular phase • Ovulation phase • Luteal phase

9. Figure 17.8Ovary.

10. Figure 17.6During ovulation, the ovum leaves the ovary and enters the fallopian tube. Subsequent changes in the fertilized ovum from conception to implantation are depicted.

11. Anatomy and Physiology Overview • Male reproductive system • Testes • Various ducts • Urethra • Accessory glands • Bulbourethral • Prostate • Seminal vesicles

12. Anatomy and Physiology Overview • Supporting structures and accessory sex organs • Scrotum • Penis • Vital function of male reproductive system • Provide the sperm cells necessary to fertilize the ovum, thereby perpetuating the species

13. Figure 18.1Male reproductive system: seminal vesicles, prostate, urethra, vas deferens, epididymis, and external genitalia.

14. External Organs • Testes • Testosterone • Male sex hormone produced by cells in the testes • Responsible for development of secondary male characteristics during puberty and maintaining them through adulthood

15. Figure 18.2Sagittal section of the male pelvis, showing the organs of the reproductive system.