XVI.Reproductive System

A. Male Anatomy Testes – primary reproductive organ. There are two each containing seminiferous tubules- “sperm- forming factories” Scrotum – sac of skin that holds the testes and functions to provide an adequate temperature for healthy sperm production.

Epididymis – provides a temporary site for immature sperm (20 days to mature). When sexually stimulated, it contracts to expel the sperm. Vas Deferens – tube that functions to propel live sperm from the epididymis into the urethra.

Urethra – extends from the base of the bladder to the tip of the penis. Functions to carry both urine and semen to the exterior body, however they never pass at the same time. Ejaculation causes the bladder sphincter to constrict. Penis – functions to deliver sperm into the female reproductive tract. This spongy tissue engorges with blood and becomes rigid for penetration.

Accessory Glands and Semen – semen is composed of sperm and secretions from the following glands: a. Seminal Vesicles – found at the base of the bladder, produces 60% of semen fluid. Fluid is rich in sugar which nourishes the sperm.

b. Prostate Gland – found just below the urinary bladder, secretes a milky fluid that activates the sperm c. Bulbourethral Glands – pea sized gland inferior to the prostate that produces a clear mucus. This mucus cleanses the urethra and serves as a lubricant during sexual intercourse.

B. Female Anatomy 1. Ovaries- primary reproductive organs of the female. There are two and they house maturing eggs and produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Fallopian Tubes- receive the egg and provide a site where fertilization can occur a. Distal end of the tube expands into fingerlike projections called fimbriae which direct the egg into the fallopian tube b. From the fallopian tube the egg is carried to the uterus via peristalsis and cilia. The journey takes 3-4 days

Uterus- functions to retain and nourish the fertilized egg. a. The opening to the uterus is called the cervix. b. The inner lining is called the endometrium, when a fertilized burrows in it is called implantation. When fertilization does not occur the inner lining sloughs off and this is called menstruation. d. Majority of the uterus is composed of smooth muscle called the myometrium.

Vagina- thin walled tube 3 to 4” long Vagina- thin walled tube 3 to 4” long. It is also known as the birth canal and receives the penis during sexual intercourse. External Genitalia- Mons Pubis – rounded area overlying the pubic symphysis. Covered by pubic hair. Labia Majora and Minora – encloses the external opening of the vagina Bartholins Glands- found on the sides of the vagina. They secrete a fluid that lubricates the vaginal area during intercourse Clitoris- composed of erectile tissue