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Reproductive System (Unit 5) - Handwritten Notes

Download handwritten notes for Human Anatomy and Physiology 2 (Semester 2), covering Unit 5: The Reproductive System. These notes provide a comprehensive overview of the anatomy and functions of both the male and female reproductive systems. They cover key topics such as sex hormones, the physiology of menstruation, fertilization, spermatogenesis, oogenesis, pregnancy, and parturition. Intended for B.Pharmacy students. Available in PDF format.

Keywords: Reproductive System, Male Reproductive System, Female Reproductive System, Sex Hormones, Menstruation, Fertilization, Spermatogenesis, Oogenesis, Pregnancy, Parturition, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Handwritten Notes, PDF, Download, Semester 2, B.Pharmacy, Bachelor of Pharmacy.

Reproductive System (Unit 5) - Detailed Explanation

Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System

The male reproductive system is responsible for producing and delivering sperm. Key structures include:

• Testes (Testicles): The primary male reproductive organs, located in the scrotum. They produce sperm (spermatogenesis) and testosterone.
• Epididymis: A coiled tube where sperm mature and are stored.
• Vas Deferens (Ductus Deferens): A tube that carries sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct.
• Seminal Vesicles: Produce a fructose-rich fluid that nourishes sperm.
• Prostate Gland: Produces a milky fluid that contributes to semen volume and helps activate sperm.
• Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper's Glands): Secrete a clear mucus that lubricates the urethra.
• Urethra: A tube that carries both urine and semen out of the body.
• Penis: The external male organ, responsible for delivering sperm into the female reproductive tract.

Anatomy of the Female Reproductive System

The female reproductive system is responsible for producing ova (eggs), receiving sperm, and supporting the development of a fetus. Key structures include:

• Ovaries: The primary female reproductive organs, located in the pelvic cavity. They produce ova (oogenesis) and the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
• Fallopian Tubes (Uterine Tubes): Tubes that carry ova from the ovaries to the uterus. Fertilization typically occurs here.
• Uterus (Womb): A muscular organ where a fertilized egg implants and develops.
• Cervix: The lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina.
• Vagina: A muscular canal that receives the penis during intercourse and serves as the birth canal.
• External Genitalia (Vulva): Includes the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal opening.

Functions of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems

The primary functions are:

• Gamete Production: males produce sperms and females produce eggs.
• Hormone production: Testes produce testosterone while ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone.
• Fertilization: enabling sperm to meet and fertilize ovum.
• Gestation and Parturition- development of fetus and its expulsion after development.

Sex Hormones

• Male: Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It's responsible for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics (e.g., facial hair, deep voice, muscle growth) and plays a crucial role in spermatogenesis.
• Female: Estrogen and progesterone are the primary female sex hormones. Estrogen is responsible for the development of female secondary sexual characteristics (e.g., breast development, widening of hips) and plays a key role in the menstrual cycle. Progesterone prepares the uterus for implantation and helps maintain pregnancy.

Physiology of Menstruation

The menstrual cycle is a recurring series of hormonal and physical changes in the female reproductive system, preparing the body for potential pregnancy. It typically lasts around 28 days (but can vary). The cycle is divided into phases:

1. Menstrual Phase (Days 1-5): The uterine lining (endometrium) is shed if fertilization hasn't occurred, resulting in menstrual bleeding.
2. Follicular Phase (Days 1-14): Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries. One follicle becomes dominant and produces increasing amounts of estrogen. Estrogen causes the endometrium to thicken.
3. Ovulation (Around Day 14): A surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland triggers the release of a mature ovum from the dominant follicle.
4. Luteal Phase (Days 15-28): The ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone and estrogen. Progesterone further prepares the endometrium for implantation. If fertilization doesn't occur, the corpus luteum degenerates, leading to a drop in hormone levels and the start of the next menstrual cycle.

Fertilization

Fertilization is the fusion of a sperm and an ovum, resulting in a zygote (fertilized egg). It typically occurs in the fallopian tube. The sperm must penetrate the outer layers of the ovum. Once a single sperm enters, the ovum's membrane changes to prevent other sperm from entering.

Spermatogenesis

Spermatogenesis is the process of sperm production in the testes. It begins at puberty and continues throughout a man's life. Spermatogonia (stem cells) divide and differentiate into spermatocytes, then spermatids, and finally spermatozoa (mature sperm). This process takes about 64-72 days.

Oogenesis

Oogenesis is the process of ovum (egg) production in the ovaries. It begins before birth, pauses during childhood, and resumes at puberty. Oogonia (stem cells) differentiate into primary oocytes, which are arrested in prophase I of meiosis. At puberty, one primary oocyte completes meiosis I each month, forming a secondary oocyte and a polar body. The secondary oocyte is released during ovulation. Meiosis II is only completed if fertilization occurs.

Pregnancy (Gestation)

Pregnancy begins with implantation of the fertilized egg (zygote) in the uterine lining. The developing embryo/fetus is nourished by the placenta, which connects to the mother's circulatory system. Pregnancy lasts approximately 40 weeks (9 months), divided into three trimesters.

Parturition (Childbirth)

Parturition is the process of giving birth. It involves strong uterine contractions that dilate the cervix and expel the fetus and placenta from the vagina. Hormones like oxytocin play a crucial role in stimulating uterine contractions.

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