Chapter 15

Chapter 15 – The Reproductive Systems and Human Development

Applied Learning Outcomes

Use the terminology associated with the reproductive system

Learn about the following:• Organization of the female and male

reproductive systems• Structure of the female and male

reproductive organs• Function of the female and male

reproductive organs• The female sexual response• Human copulation, pregnancy, and

developmentUnderstand the aging and pathology of the

reproductive system

The main job of the reproductive system is to ensure the continuation of the human species.

Overview

Chapter 15 – The Reproductive Systems and Human Development

Humans exhibit sexual dimorphism. Secondary sex characteristics become evident after 14 weeks of embryological development. Further development takes place at puberty.

Female Reproductive System

Chapter 15 – The Reproductive Systems and Human Development

The female reproductive system is composed of the reproductive tract and the mammary glands. The reproductive tract is composed of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina.

Male Reproductive System

Chapter 15 – The Reproductive Systems and Human Development

The male reproductive system is composed of the testes, seminal vesicles, and penis. The penis and scrotum make up the external genetalia. Seminal vessel ducts

include the epididymis, vas deferens, and ejaculatory duct. The seminal vessel glands include the seminal vesicles, prostate, and Cowper’s glands.

Basics of Sexual Reproduction

Chapter 15 – The Reproductive Systems and Human Development

The female has a menstrual cycle that prepares the body for pregnancy.

Copulation is the transfer of sperm to the female reproductive tract.

Fertilization of the ovum takes place in the fallopian tubes.

Implantation of the embryo takes place high up in the uterus.

Fetal development continues until labor.

Wellness and Illness over the Life Span

• Diseases of the reproductive system tract are congenital, infectious, or degenerative.

• Reproductive disorders can include inappropriate implantation of the embryo.

• Most reproductive system aging is the result of the aging of the endocrine and urinary systems.

• Reproductive system aging reduces egg and sperm production, and causes the degeneration of the reproductive organs.

• The decrease in sex hormones is called andropause in males and menopause in females.

Chapter 15 – The Reproductive Systems and Human Development

Summary

Male sexual structures are designed to produce, store, and deliver sperm.

The female reproductive system not only produces eggs, but also must nurture embryogenesis.

The female menstrual cycle prepares the body for pregnancy.

Human embryogenesis is a complex sequence of events that forms a fetus.

Pathology of the reproductive system commonly reduces a person’s ability to produce offspring.

Chapter 15 – The Reproductive Systems and Human Development