BIOLOGY The Reproductive System 2015

Function of the REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM produces, stores, and releases specialized reproductive cells known as gametes. male gamete = sperm female gamete = egg cells are released in a way that makes fusion of the gametes (fertilization) possible to form a zygote. A functioning reproductive system is not necessary for any individual yet this may be the most important system because it is needed for the survival of the species.

Fertilization sperm + eggzygote= fertilized egg cell a zygote will develop into a new organism when nourished by the mother’s placenta

Sexual Development For the first 6 weeks male and female embryos are identical In week 7 in males, testes start to produce testosterone which signals surrounding tissues to transform into male reproductive structures in females, ovaries start to produce estrogen which signals surrounding tissues to transform into female reproductive structures *Males produce only a small amount of testosterone and females only produce a small amount of estrogen until puberty. sex organs/structure are not full developed inability to produce gametes (sperm and egg)

Puberty Hypothalamus signals to pituitary to start producing two hormones (FSH & LH) These hormones stimulate production of gametes and increased amount of testosterone in males and estrogen in females ages between 9-15 on average, occurs 1 year earlier in females Rapid growth and maturation of sexual organs Ability to produce gametes and sexual intercourse can take place

The Male Reproductive System male_repro.html

The Female Reproductive System asics/bodybasics_female_repro.html

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES Diseases that are spread from one person to another through sexual contact bacterial chlamydia syphilis gonorrhea can be treated viral hepatitis herpes genital worts AIDS no treatment will have the rest of life

Chlamydia *Caused by bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis *Females show highest incidence *SYMPTOMS abnormal vaginal discharge or a burning sensation when urinating. When the infection spreads from the cervix to the fallopian tubes (tubes that carry fertilized eggs from the ovaries to the uterus), some women still have no signs or symptoms; others have lower abdominal pain, low back pain, nausea, fever, pain during intercourse, or bleeding between menstrual periods. Chlamydial infection of the cervix can spread to the rectum Men with signs or symptoms might have a discharge from their penis or a burning sensation when urinating. Men might also have burning and itching around the opening of the penis If UNTREATED Chlamydia WILL CAUSE Infertility Can be treated with antibiotics

Syphilis *caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum *rates are highest among females in early 20’s and males in late 30’s SYMPTOMS SORES are usually present yet may go undetected Other symptoms mimic a wide variety of diseases *If untreated will cause organ failure and dementia WILL eventually cause death if untreated Can be treated with antibiotics

Gonorrhea *Anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea. It is more common among teens and young adults *People who have gonorrhea may not notice they have it because symptoms are subtle For Women – Vaginal bleeding between your periods. –Pain or burning when you pass urine. –Increased vaginal discharge For Men –Pain or burning when you pass urine. –A discharge from your penis. –Painful or swollen testicles *If you do not treat gonorrhea, it can lead to serious health problems *Gonorrhea is easy to treat and cure

Abstinence The ONLY 100% sure way to avoid pregnancy and SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES Waiting until you are financial stable and in a loving relationship (marriage) is the best bet!

Contraception Condoms (Male) -latex covering prevents sperm from reaching egg -approx. 85% effective in preventing pregnancy. -also only form of birth control that provides protection against SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES Birth Control Pills -over 40 different types -work in 3 main ways -taken orally (by mouth) each day % effective when taken properly -certain other medications may reduce their effectiveness