Growth and Development The Reproductive System

Male Reproductive System Produces sperm Sperm production begins around age 12-15 Sperm produced in the Testes. Sperm matures in the Epididymis Travels through Vas Deferens. Mix with Semeninal Fluid to produce semen Semen leaves penis through the Urethra. This is call ejaculation.

Problems with Male System These problems can range from uncomfortable to VERY serious. Problems can Include: Inguinal Hernia: may happen after heavy lifting Sterility: not producing enough healthy sperm to have kids Enlarged Prostate: associated with aging Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s): Infections spread by sexual contact Cancer: can affect testicles, prostate, other male reproductive organs.

Care of Reproductive Organs Suggestions for good reproductive care… - Self-exam: check scrotum and testicles once a month. Check for lumps or unusual swelling. - Shower Regularly - Avoid tight underwear: can lead to low sperm count. - Wear protective cup - Practice Abstinence

Female Reproductive System Functions… - produces estrogen - stores egg cells - provides place for fertilization to occur. - nourishes and protects fertilized egg as it grows and matures. Parts of… - Ovaries: contain eggs and produces hormones. - Fallopian Tubes: carry eggs - Uterus: shelters and nourishes fetus - Endometrium: lining of the uterus. - Cervix: opening of the uterus. - Vagina: muscular pathway from the uterus to outside the body.

The Menstrual Cycle Ovulation is the release of one mature egg cell per month. Uterus thickens to nourish a fertilized egg If fertilization does not occur the lining breaks down Menstruation is the expulsion of this lining Menstruation usually lasts from 5 to 7 days A cycle usually lasts about 28 days Some females can experience cramps, fatigue, or moodiness (Day 21) The egg enters the uterus. After 7 days, if the egg has not been fertilized, menstruation begins. (Day 1-13) A new egg cell is maturing inside the ovary (Day 14) Ovulation occurs and the mature egg is released into one of the fallopian tubes (Day 15-20) The egg travels through the fallopian tube

Problems with Female System Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Infertility: Caused by blocked fallopian tubes or failure to produce eggs. Ovarian Cysts: growths on the ovary. Any pain, swelling, abnormal bloating, or heaviness in the abdominal region should be evaluated. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s) Cancer: can effect breasts, ovaries, uterus, or cervix

Self Care Self-Examine the breasts once a month. Check for unusual lumps or thickening. Any changes should be looked at by a physician. Bathe/Shower Regularly Record Menstrual Periods Practice Abstinence

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s)

The Facts Sexually Transmitted Infections are infections spread from one person to another through sexual contact. STI’s are sometimes referred to as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s). 25 % of all new cases occur among 15 to 19 year olds. You cannot tell if someone has an STI by their appearance. STI’s can recur because the body DOES NOT build up immunity to them. STI’s may not have immediate symptoms, but can show up at any time and be contracted by others. Common STI’s including their cause, symptoms, and treatment (if applicable) are on the handout.

Non-Sexually Trasmitted Infections Urinary Tract Infections – can cause pain and burning during urination. Vaginal Yeast Infections – - fairly common - produce white discharge, itching, and burning. - NOT ALL yeast infections are the result of sexual activity.

HIV and AIDS

AIDS as commonly known stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome is a deadly disease that interferes with the body’s ability to fight infections. The virus that causes AIDS is called HIV. The only way a person can tell if they have been infected with HIV is through blood tests. There is no vaccine and no cure. AIDS is usually fatal. A person can be a carrier of HIV w/o having AIDS AIDS can affect men, women, children, and senior citizens.

What does HIV do to the Body? HIV attacks the immune system by destroying T-cells. Immune system can no longer fight off virus and bacteria. Some people will initially have flu-like symptoms. Symptoms may disappear and be followed by AIDS. People w/ AIDS may have swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, diarrhea, weight loss, or have the presence of Opportunistic Infections. Opportunistic Infection = an infection that rarely occurs in a health body.

How is HIV Spread? Sexual Contact: even after just one incident of sexual activity. Those with multiple sexual partners are at greater risk. Skin Piercing: drug needles, body piercing, tattoos when a shard needle is used. Pregnancy: A mother can pass HIV to her unborn child or through breast feeding. Blood Transfusions: All donated blood is tested for HIV. The blood of a newly infected may not contain signs of HIV.

HIV is NOT Spread Through the air Kissing: unless both persons have a cut or sore in the mouth. Casual Contact Mosquitoes Eating Utensils Blood Donation: USA requires that all needles be sterile and used only once.

Testing and Treatment People who believe they might have the HIV infection need to be tested. Only a blood test can detect the antibodies to HIV. It may take up to 6 months after infection for the blood test to be accurate. AZT is an antiviral medicine that slows the progress of HIV in the body. These medicines have allowed many with AIDS to live with their disease there are many negative side effects.