Human Reproductive System: Male and Female Anatomy

The Male Reproductive System

Components

The male reproductive system produces sperm, sex hormones, and semen. Its key components include:

• Testicles: Two glands housed in the scrotum that produce sperm and testosterone.
• Genital Tracts: The epididymis and vas deferens collect and transport sperm from the testicles to the urethra.
• Attached Glands: The prostate and seminal vesicles produce secretions that enable sperm maturation and create semen.
• Penis: The external organ that deposits sperm into the female vagina. Erectile tissue expands during sexual excitement, causing an erection. The glans is protected by the foreskin.

Sperm Production

Sperm production occurs in the seminiferous tubules of the testicles. Sperm travel from the seminiferous tubules through the vas deferens to the urethra. Along the way, they mix with secretions from the seminal vesicles and prostate to form semen.

Sperm are the male gametes, carrying the father's genes to the future embryo.

The Female Reproductive System

Components

The female reproductive system produces eggs (female gametes) and female sex hormones. It is the site of fertilization and fetal development.

• Ovaries: Two glands located on either side of the uterus that produce eggs and female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone).
• Genital Tract: The fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina. The fallopian tubes carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. The uterus is a muscular organ where the embryo develops. The vagina connects the uterus to the outside and receives sperm during intercourse.
• External Genitalia (Vulva): The labia protect the vaginal orifice, urethral orifice, and clitoris.

Egg Production and the Menstrual Cycle

Eggs, consisting of a nucleus with chromosomes and nutrient-rich cytoplasm, travel through the fallopian tubes. They are produced in the ovaries within follicles. Mature follicles rupture and release eggs in a process called ovulation.

The female sexual cycle involves the release of an egg approximately every 28 days, from puberty to menopause, resulting in the menstrual cycle.

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

• Pre-Ovulatory Phase: The first 14 days, involving follicle maturation, ovulation, and egg release into the uterus. Fertilization can occur if sperm meets the egg in the fallopian tube within two or three days of ovulation.