REPRODUCTIVE
SYSTEM
REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM FUNCTION
The reproductive system is necessary for the production of new
living organisms. The ability to reproduce is a basic characteristic of
life. In sexual reproduction, two individuals produce offspring that
have genetic characteristics from both parents. The primary function
of the reproductive system is to produce male and female sex
cellsand to ensure the growth and development of offspring. The
reproductive system is comprised of male and female reproductive
organs and structures. The growth and activity of these organs and
structures is regulated by hormones. The reproductive system is
closely associated with other organ systems, particularly
the endocrine system and urinary system.
MALE AND FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS
Both male and female reproductive organs have internal and
external structures. Reproductive organs are considered to be either
primary or secondary organs. The primary reproductive organs are
the gonads (ovaries and testes), which are responsible
for gamete (sperm and egg cell) and hormone production. The other
reproductive structures and organs are considered secondary
reproductive structures. Secondary organs aid in the growth and
maturation of gametes and developing offspring.
FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
ORGANS
Structures of the female reproductive system include:
Labia majora - Larger lip-like external structures that cover and
protect sexual structures.
Labia minora - Smaller lip-like external structures found inside
the labia majora. They provide protection for the clitoris and for
the urethra and vaginal openings.
Clitoris - Very sensitive sexual organ located in front of the
vaginal opening. It contains thousands of sensory nerve endings
and responds to sexual stimulation.
Vagina - Fibrous, muscular canal leading from the cervix
(opening of the uterus) to the external portion of the genital
canal.
Uterus - Muscular internal organ that houses and nurtures
female gametes after fertilization. Also called the womb, the
uterus is where a developing fetus resides during pregnancy.
Fallopian tubes - Uterine tubes which transport egg cells from
the ovaries to the uterus. Fertilization typically occurs in these
tubes.
Ovaries - Female primary reproductive structures that produce
gametes and sex hormones. There is one ovary on each side of
the uterus.
MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM ORGANS
Structures of the female reproductive system include:
Penis - Main organ involved in sexual intercourse. This organ is
composed of erectile tissue, connective tissue, and skin. The
urethra extends through the length of the penis, allowing urine
and sperm to pass.
Testes - Male primary reproductive structures that produce male
gametes (sperm) and sex hormones.
Scrotum - External pouch of skin that contains the testes.
Because the scrotum is located outside of the abdomen, it can
reach temperatures that are lower than that of internal body
structures. Lower temperatures are necessary for proper sperm
development.
Epididymis - System of ducts that receive immature sperm from
the testes. Its function is to develop immature sperm and to
house mature sperm.
Ductus Deferens or Vas Deferens - Fibrous, muscular tubes that
are continuous with the epididymis and provide a pathway for
sperm to travel from the epididymis to the urethra.
Ejaculatory Duct - Duct formed from the union of the ductus
deferens and seminal vesicles. Each ejaculatory duct empties
into the urethra.
Urethra - Tube that extends from the urinary bladder through the
penis. This canal allows for the excretion of reproductive fluids
(semen) and urine from the body. Sphincters prevent urine from
entering the urethra while semen is passing through.
Seminal Vesicles - Glands that produce fluid to nurture and
provide energy for sperm cells. Tubes leading from the seminal
vesicles join the ductus deferens to form the ejaculatory duct.
Prostate Gland - Gland that produces a milky, alkaline fluid
which increases sperm motility. The contents of the prostate
empty into the urethra.
Bulbourethral or Cowper's Glands - Small glands located at the
base of the penis. In response to sexual stimulation, these
glands secrete an alkaline fluid which helps to neutralize acidity
from urine in the urethra and acidity in the vagina.
Similarly, the female reproductive system contains organs and
structures that promote the production, support, growth, and
development of female gametes (egg cells) and a growing fetus.
