Human Reproduction: Processes, Characteristics, and Anatomy

Human Reproduction: Fundamental Processes

Human reproduction is sexual, meaning that both the mother and father contribute genetic material to their offspring via gametes. Offspring will have a mix of their parents' characteristics, and each person obtains their own unique genetic make-up.

The female gametes, ovules, and the male gametes, sperm, fuse together in the process called fertilisation, inside the female reproductive system, to form a zygote.

The embryo develops from the zygote inside the mother's uterus, undergoing repeated cell divisions. The new cells created specialise to form tissues and organs.

Sexual Characteristics and Puberty

Boys and girls are born with different reproductive organs, which constitute the so-called primary sexual characteristics. During puberty, our bodies undergo a series of changes, through which we acquire secondary sexual characteristics.

Among the physical changes in girls are:

• The appearance of armpit and pubic hair.
• The widening of the hips.
• Development of the breasts.
• Maturation of sexual organs with the beginning of menstruation.

The main physical changes in boys are:

• The deepening of the voice.
• Appearance of pubic, facial, and body hair.
• Muscular development.
• Maturing of sexual organs with the beginning of ejaculations.

Female Reproductive Organs and Functions

Ovaries

Produce ovules.

Follicles

Store ovules.

Follicles

Produce the hormones oestrogens and progesterone.

Uterus

Houses and feeds the embryo.

Endometrium

The mucous membrane that lines the uterus.

Vulva

Set of external female genital organs.

Fallopian Tubes

Genital ways that connect the ovaries to the uterus.

Vagina

Passageway where sperm is deposited during intercourse.

Male Reproductive Organs and Functions

Vas Deferens

Carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra.

Penis

Enables deposition of sperm in the female's vagina.

Seminal Vesicles

Produce the seminal fluid that forms part of the sperm.

Prostate

Produces fluid that protects spermatozoa from the acidity of the urethra.

Urethra

Exit passageway for both sperm and urine.

Testicles

Produce sperm cells and the hormone testosterone.

Scrotum

Sac that contains the testicles.