Review: Introduction to the Reproductive System
Here is what we have learned from Introduction to the Reproductive System:
- The four functions of the reproductive system are:
- To produce egg and sperm cells
- To transport and sustain these cells
- To nurture the developing fetus
- To produce hormones
- The primary reproductive organs are the gonads, which produce the gametes and hormones. The secondary, or accessory, structures transport and sustain the gametes and nurture the developing offspring.
- The male reproductive system consists of the testes, duct system, accessory glands, and penis.
- The male gonads are the testes. Their location within the scrotum is necessary for the production of viable sperm.
- The female reproductive system includes the ovaries, uterine tubes, uterus, vagina, accessory glands, and external genital organs.
- The female gonads are the ovaries, which are located on each side of the uterus in the pelvic cavity.
- Estrogen and progesterone stimulate the development of glandular tissue and ducts in the breast. Prolactin stimulates the production of milk, and oxytocin causes the ejection of milk.
Quiz
Go to the quiz if you want to test yourself on the material you learned in this section. The quiz is a self-assessment tool and no records are kept. The feedback will let you know if you have answered the questions correctly. You can take the quiz as many times as you want.