The male and female reproductive systems are complex networks of organs and structures. Each system is uniquely designed to produce and transport gametes, facilitate , and support embryo development.
Understanding these anatomical differences is crucial for grasping how hormones regulate reproduction. From sperm production in to egg maturation in , each part plays a vital role in the reproductive process.
Male Reproductive Anatomy
Testes and Epididymis
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Testes are the male gonads that produce sperm and
Located in the , a sac of skin that hangs outside the body to maintain a lower temperature for optimal sperm production
Seminiferous tubules within the testes are the site of , the process of sperm production
Leydig cells in the testes produce testosterone, the primary male sex hormone responsible for male secondary sexual characteristics and maintaining spermatogenesis
is a long, coiled tube located on the posterior surface of each testis where sperm mature and are stored until ejaculation ()
Penis and Vas Deferens
is the male copulatory organ that delivers sperm into the female reproductive tract during sexual intercourse
Composed of erectile tissue (corpus cavernosum and corpus spongiosum) that fills with blood during sexual arousal, causing an erection
runs through the penis, serving as a passage for both urine and semen (contains sperm and seminal fluid)
Vas deferens is a muscular tube that transports mature sperm from the epididymis to the during ejaculation
Ejaculatory ducts form when the vas deferens joins with the , which contribute seminal fluid to the semen
Prostate Gland and Seminal Vesicles
is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder that surrounds the urethra
Secretes an alkaline fluid that makes up a significant portion of semen, which helps to neutralize the acidic environment of the and protect sperm
Seminal vesicles are a pair of glands that produce a nutrient-rich fluid that makes up the majority of semen volume
This fluid contains fructose, which provides energy for sperm, and prostaglandins, which help to suppress the female immune response to sperm
Female Reproductive Anatomy
Ovaries and Fallopian Tubes
Ovaries are the female gonads that produce eggs (ova) and female sex hormones ( and )
Located in the pelvic cavity, one on each side of the
Contain follicles at various stages of development, each housing an immature egg
occurs when a mature follicle ruptures, releasing an egg into the fallopian tube
(oviducts) are a pair of tubular structures that extend from the ovaries to the uterus
Site of fertilization, where sperm can meet and fertilize an egg after ovulation
Ciliated cells in the fallopian tube help to move the egg or embryo towards the uterus
Uterus and Vagina
Uterus is a muscular, pear-shaped organ that houses and supports the developing fetus during pregnancy
is the inner lining of the uterus that thickens in preparation for implantation of a fertilized egg and is shed during if pregnancy does not occur
is the lower, narrow portion of the uterus that connects to the vagina and dilates during childbirth to allow the baby to pass through
Vagina is a muscular, elastic canal that extends from the cervix to the external genitalia ()
Serves as the receptacle for the penis during sexual intercourse and a passageway for menstrual flow and childbirth
Mammary Glands and Vulva
(breasts) are modified sweat glands that produce milk to nourish an infant after childbirth
Contain lobules (milk-producing glands) and ducts that carry milk to the nipple
Development and function of mammary glands are influenced by hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin
Vulva refers to the external female genitalia, which includes the labia majora, labia minora, , and openings of the urethra and vagina
Clitoris is a small, sensitive structure that is homologous to the male penis and plays a role in sexual arousal and pleasure