12.1 Male and female reproductive anatomy

The male and female reproductive systems are complex networks of organs and structures. Each system is uniquely designed to produce and transport gametes, facilitate fertilization, and support embryo development.

Understanding these anatomical differences is crucial for grasping how hormones regulate reproduction. From sperm production in testes to egg maturation in ovaries, 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 testosterone
• Located in the scrotum, 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 spermatogenesis, 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
• Epididymis is a long, coiled tube located on the posterior surface of each testis where sperm mature and are stored until ejaculation (vas deferens)

Penis and Vas Deferens

• Penis 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
• Urethra 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 ejaculatory ducts during ejaculation
• Ejaculatory ducts form when the vas deferens joins with the seminal vesicles, which contribute seminal fluid to the semen

Prostate Gland and Seminal Vesicles

• Prostate gland 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 vagina 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 (estrogen and progesterone)
• Located in the pelvic cavity, one on each side of the uterus
• Contain follicles at various stages of development, each housing an immature egg
• Ovulation occurs when a mature follicle ruptures, releasing an egg into the fallopian tube
• Fallopian tubes (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
• Endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus that thickens in preparation for implantation of a fertilized egg and is shed during menstruation if pregnancy does not occur
• Cervix 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 (vulva)
• Serves as the receptacle for the penis during sexual intercourse and a passageway for menstrual flow and childbirth

Mammary Glands and Vulva

• Mammary glands (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, clitoris, 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