Human Reproduction

Lesson

Part 1 — the organs that make gametes, carry them and support a pregnancy.

In this lesson you will

Draw and label the male reproductive system and the T.S. of a seminiferous tubule
Draw and label the female reproductive system and the T.S. of an ovary
State the functions of each organ and gland

Diagram

The male reproductive system

A pair of testes lies in the scrotum, outside the abdominal cavity, at a temperature 2–2.5 °C lower than body temperature, which is needed for spermatogenesis. Accessory ducts (rete testis, vasa efferentia, epididymis, vas deferens) and glands (seminal vesicles, prostate, bulbourethral glands) complete the system.

Concept

Ducts and glands of the male system

Sperms travel: seminiferous tubules → rete testis → vasa efferentia → epididymis → vas deferens → ejaculatory duct → urethra.

Table of male accessory glands and their secretions
Gland	Secretion and role
Seminal vesicles (paired)	Fluid rich in fructose (energy for sperms), calcium and certain enzymes
Prostate	Milky fluid that activates sperms and adds to semen volume
Bulbourethral (Cowper’s) glands	Mucus that lubricates the penis
Together	Seminal plasma; with sperms it forms semen

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