Chapter 21 - Reproductive System Flashcards

Question

testosterone

Answer 1

A hormone produced by the human body. It's mainly produced in men by the testicles. Testosterone affects a man's appearance and sexual development. It stimulates sperm production as well as a man's sex drive. It also helps build muscle and bone mass. It is also responsible for the change in a male's voice during puberty.

Answer 2

A dividing wall or membrane, especially between bodily spaces or masses of soft tissue. One example is the cartilage in the nose that separates the nostrils.

Answer 3

a small lobe or a subdivision of a lobe

Answer 4

the process by which haploid spermatozoa develop from germ cells in the seminiferous tubules of the testis

Answer 5

any biological cell that gives rise to the gametes of an organism that reproduces sexually

Answer 6

primitive male germ cells that undergo spermatogenesis to become sperm cells

Answer 7

A hormone that has a stimulating effect on the gonads—the testes and ovaries. It is secreted from the pituitary gland.

Answer 8

The head of the sperm contains the nucleus. The nucleus holds the DNA of the cell. The midpiece of the sperm is packed with mitochondria. Mitochondria are organelles in cells that produce energy. The tail of the sperm moves like a propeller, around and around.

Answer 9

a cap-like structure on a sperm cell's head containing enzymes that enable the sperm to break down the covering of the ovum and permit entry if contact occurs

Answer 10

It is a condition in which one or both of the testes fail to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum. Early in fetal life the testes are located in the abdominal cavity but normally descend into the scrotum about 2 months before birth. Failure of the testes to descend may be caused by hormonal imbalances in the developing fetus or by a physical deficiency or obstruction. Regardless of cause, in the cryptorchid infant the testes remain “hidden” in the abdominal cavity. Because the higher temperature inside the body cavity inhibits spermatogenesis, measures must be taken to bring the testes down into the scrotum to prevent permanent sterility. (The word cryptorchidism is from the Greek words kryptikos (hidden) and orchis (testis).)

Answer 11

also called seminal fluid a viscid whitish fluid of the male reproductive tract consisting of spermatozoa suspended in secretions of accessory glands (as of the prostate and Cowper's glands)

Answer 12

1. having an adhesive quality: STICKY 2. having a glutinous consistency: VISCOUS 3. covered with a sticky layer

Answer 13

also called prostate gland enlargement It is a common problem in older men. The condition is characterized by an enlargement or hypertrophy of the prostate gland. That the urethra passes through the center of the prostate after exiting from the bladder is a matter of considerable clinical significance in this condition. As the prostate enlarges, it squeezes the urethra, frequently closing it so completely that urination becomes very difficult or even impossible. In some cases, drugs (Avodart, Flomax, others) may be used to improve urine flow and reduce symptoms of BPH. Surgical removal of part or all of the gland, a procedure called prostatectomy is also a treatment option.

Answer 14

A cancer that occurs in the prostate. Prostate cancer also causes hypertrophy of the gland and restricted or obstructed urine flow caused by malignant tumor growth. In addition to surgery, cancerous prostatic growths may also be treated using systemic chemotherapy, cryotherapy (freezing) of prostatic tissue, microwave (heat) therapy, hormonal therapy, inserting radioactive “seeds” directly into the tumor, and the use of various types of external-beam radiation.

Answer 15

inflammation of the prostate

Answer 16

also called genitalia | They are a person or animal's external organs of reproduction.

Answer 17

also called the glans penis | the sensitive bulbous structure at the end of the human penis

Answer 18

of, relating to, or affecting a channel for the conveyance of a body fluid (such as blood of an animal or sap of a plant) or a system of such channels

Answer 19

tissue in the body with numerous vascular spaces, or cavernous tissue, that may become engorged with blood (e.g. in the penis)

Answer 20

Blood-filled spaces lined by endothelium and surrounded by smooth muscle. It is present in the erectile tissue of the penis and clitoris.

Answer 21

The penis is the organ that, when made stiff and erect by the filling of its spongy or erectile tissue components with blood during sexual arousal, can enter and deposit sperm in the vagina during intercourse. The penis has three separate columns of erectile tissue in its shaft: one column of corpus spongiosum, which surrounds the urethra, and two columns of corpora cavernosa. The corpora cavernosa holds 90% of the blood involved in an erection.

Answer 22

An unwanted, persistent erection. It may occur spontaneously or from certain antidepressants or erectile dysfunction drugs. Symptoms include an erection lasting more than four hours or off and on for several hours. The penis is usually painful or tender. Prompt treatment is needed. Options include draining blood from the penis (aspiration) and medication to restrict blood flow to the penis. Untreated priapism can result in damage or destruction of penile tissue, and may lead to permanent erectile dysfunction.

Answer 23

deficient supply of blood to a body part (such as the heart or brain) that is due to obstruction of the inflow of arterial blood

Answer 24

the tissue which forms a single layer of cells lining various organs and cavities of the body, especially the blood vessels, heart, and lymphatic vessels

Answer 25

intended to enhance physical performance, stamina, or recovery

Answer 26

A pair of female glands in which the eggs form and the female hormones estrogen and progesterone are made. These hormones play an important role in female traits, such as breast development, body shape, and body hair. The ovaries are gonads, and produce the female sex cells (ova).

Answer 27

also known as uterine tubes, salpinges (singular salpinx), or oviducts One of two long, slender tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. Eggs pass from the ovaries, through the fallopian tubes, to the uterus.

Answer 28

The hollow, pear-shaped muscular organ in a woman's pelvis. The uterus is where a fetus (unborn baby) develops and grows.

Answer 29

The lower, narrow end of the uterus that forms a canal (cervical canal) between the uterus and vagina.

Answer 30

also called the pubic mound or mons known specifically in females as the mons Venus or mons veneris It is a rounded mass of fatty tissue found over the pubic symphysis of the pubic bones. During puberty, the mons pubis becomes covered in pubic hair. It also contains glands that begin secreting pheromones (substances involved in sexual attraction).

Answer 31

The vulva has 2 folds of skin. The outer folds are called the labia majora (singular: labium majus). The inner folds are called the labia minora (singular: labium minus). These skin folds protect the opening of the urethra and the vagina. The labia minora are also known as the inner labia, inner lips, vaginal lips or nymphae.

Answer 32

There are two types of vestibular glands, both are structures found near and in the vagina: The greater, or major vestibular glands, are also known as Bartholin's glands. They secrete mucus to lubricate the vagina The lesser, or minor vestibular glands, are also known as Skene's glands. The glands are surrounded by tissue that swells with blood during sexual arousal, and secrete a fluid from openings near the urethra, particularly during orgasm.

Answer 33

an immature stage of the female sex cell

Answer 34

the primary cell type in the ovary that provides the physical support and microenvironment required for the developing oocyte

Answer 35

also called vegetal cell | any cell of a living organism other than the reproductive cells

Answer 36

A small, fluid-filled sac in the ovary that contains one immature egg. There are thousands of follicles in the ovaries. When an egg matures during a woman’s menstrual cycle, the follicle breaks open and releases the egg from the ovary for possible fertilization (the process by which an egg combines with sperm to form an embryo). Ovarian follicles may sometimes be checked to help diagnose and treat infertility.

Answer 37

Ovulation is a part of the menstrual cycle. It occurs when an egg (ovum) is released from the ovary. When the egg is released, it may or may not be fertilized by sperm. If fertilized, the egg may travel to the uterus and implant to develop into a pregnancy. If left unfertilized, the egg disintegrates and the uterine lining is shed during a woman's period. Understanding how ovulation happens and when it takes place can help a woman achieve or prevent pregnancy. It can also help them diagnose certain medical conditions.

Answer 38

the growth process in which the primary egg cell (or ovum) becomes a mature ovum

Answer 39

A small haploid cell that is formed at the same time as an egg cell during oogenesis, but generally does not have the ability to be fertilized. Think of it as a kind of non-functional garbage that is produced but eventually dies.

Answer 40

An organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. This structure provides oxygen and nutrients to the growing baby and removes waste products from the baby's blood. The placenta attaches to the wall of the uterus, and the baby's umbilical cord arises from it. The placenta is expelled from the body after the birth, usually about 5 to 30 minutes after the baby is born.

Answer 41

(also called the navel string, birth cord or funiculus umbilicalis) It is a conduit between the developing embryo or fetus and the placenta. During prenatal development, the umbilical cord is physiologically and genetically part of the fetus and (in humans) normally contains two arteries (the umbilical arteries) and one vein (the umbilical vein), buried within Wharton's jelly. The umbilical vein supplies the fetus with oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood from the placenta. Conversely, the fetal heart pumps low oxygen, nutrient-depleted blood through the umbilical arteries back to the placenta.

Answer 42

A gelatinous substance within the umbilical cord that protects and insulates umbilical blood vessels.

Answer 43

In bacteriology, a fimbria, also referred to as an "attachment pilus" by some scientists, is a short appendage found on many Gram-negative and some Gram-positive bacteria, and that is thinner and shorter than a flagellum.

Answer 44

The thick wall of the uterus has 3 layers: The endometrium is the inner layer that lines the uterus. It is made up of glandular cells that make secretions. The myometrium is the middle and thickest layer of the uterus wall. It is made up mostly of smooth muscle. The perimetrium is the outer serous layer of the uterus. The serous layer secretes a lubricating fluid that helps to reduce friction. The perimetrium is also part of the peritoneum that covers some of the organs of the pelvis.

Answer 45

A pregnancy resulting from the implantation of a fertilized ovum in any location other than the uterus. Occasionally, because the outer ends of the uterine tubes open into the pelvic cavity and are not actually connected to the ovaries, an ovum does not enter an oviduct but becomes fertilized and remains in the abdominal cavity. Although rare, if implantation occurs on the surface of an abdominal organ or on one of the mesenteries, development may continue to term. In such cases, delivery by cesarean section is required. Most ectopic pregnancies involve implantation in the uterine tube and are therefore called tubal pregnancies. They result in fetal death and, if not treated, tubal rupture.

Answer 46

The part of a hollow organ that is across from, or farthest away from, the organ's opening.

Answer 47

The monthly cycle of ovulation and menstruation in women. It's made of three phases: menses, proliferative phase, and secretory phase Days 1-5: Menses - Small patches of dead cells of uterine lining slough off, leaving torn blood vessels; menstrual bleeding comes from these torn vessels Day 6-13: Proliferative phase - Epithelial cells reproduce, repairing uterine lining Day 14: Ovulation - Ovum is released from the ovary and moves into the uterine tube for possible fertilization. This is actually considered the beginning of the secretory phase. Pregnancy is only possible around the time of ovulation. Days 15-28: Secretory phase (cont'd)- Uterine lining prepares for pregnancy (that is, implantation of fertilized ovum) by growing thicker, secreting, and developing greater blood supply; on last day, blood supply decreases greatly, causing some lining cells to die. Unless pregnancy occurs, the cycle ends with the shedding of part of the endometrium, which is menstruation. Although it is actually the end of the physical cycle, the first day of menstrual bleeding is designated as "day 1" of the menstrual cycle in medical parlance. A typical menstrual cycle covers a period of about 28 days. However, the length of the cycle varies among women. Some women, for example, may have a regular cycle that covers 24 days. The length of the cycle also varies within one woman. Some women, for example, may have irregular cycles that range from 21 to 28 days, whereas others may have cycles that are 2 to 3 months long. As a general rule, during the 30 or 40 years that a woman has periods, only one ovum matures each month. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Some months, more than one matures, and some months, no ovum matures.

Answer 48

1. speech: especially, formal debate or parley | 2. manner or mode of speech: IDIOM

Answer 49

(verb) to speak with another: specifically, to discuss terms with an enemy (noun) a conference for discussion of points in dispute (noun) a conference with an enemy (noun) a discussion

Answer 50

the natural cessation of menstruation that usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 also: the period during which such cessation occurs (the term also refers to unnatural cessations of menstruation)

Answer 51

(also known as a period, menses, or menstrual flow) It is the regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of the uterus through the vagina. The menstrual cycle is characterized by the rise and fall of hormones. Menstruation is triggered by falling progesterone levels and is a sign that pregnancy has not occurred. The menstrual blood—which is partly blood and partly tissue from the inside of the uterus—flows from the uterus through the cervix and out of the body through the vagina.

Answer 52

The word hysterectomy comes from the combination of two Greek words: hystera, meaning “uterus,” and ektome, meaning “to cut out.” By definition it is the surgical removal of the uterus. Hysterectomy is a term that is often misused, however, by incorrectly expanding its definition to include the removal of the ovaries or other reproductive structures. Only the uterus is removed in a hysterectomy. If the total uterus, including the cervix, is removed, the terms total hysterectomy or panhysterectomy may be used. If the cervical portion of the uterus is left in place and only the body of the organ is removed, the term subtotal hysterectomy is appropriate. The actual removal of the uterus may be performed through an incision made in the abdominal wall—abdominal hysterectomy—or through the vagina—vaginal hysterectomy. The term oophorectomy is used to describe removal of the ovaries. Although the two surgical procedures may take place during the same operation—for a woman with uterine or ovarian cancer, for example—the terms used to describe them should not be used interchangeably.

Answer 53

The surgical removal of one or both ovaries; also called ovariectomy.

Answer 54

A distensible tube about 10 cm (4 inches) long, made mainly of smooth muscle and lined with mucous membrane. It can stretch to become longer when aroused (8 inches). It lies in the pelvic cavity between the urinary bladder and the rectum. As the part of the female reproductive tract that opens to the exterior, the vagina is the organ that sperm enter during their journey to meet an ovum, and it is also the organ from which a baby emerges to meet its new world.

Answer 55

Both females and males develop breasts from the same embryological tissues. The breasts lie over the pectoral muscles and are attached to them by things called fibrous suspensory ligaments (Cooper ligaments). In females, it serves as the mammary gland. At puberty, estrogens, in conjunction with growth hormone, cause breast development in female humans and to a much lesser extent in other primates. Breast development in other primate females generally only occurs with pregnancy. Breast size is determined more by the amount of fat around the glandular (milk-secreting) tissue than by the amount of glandular tissue itself. Hence the size of the breast has little to do with its ability to secrete adequate amounts of milk after the birth of a baby. Each breast consists of 15 to 20 divisions or lobes that are arranged radially. Each lobe consists of several lobules, and each lobule consists of milk-secreting glandular cells. The milk-secreting cells are arranged in grapelike clusters of small chambers called alveoli. Small contractile cells surround the alveoli and push milk into ducts when stimulated by oxytocin (OT) released from the posterior pituitary gland—an event called “milk let-down.”

Answer 56

A hormone made in the brain that plays a role in childbirth and lactation by causing muscles to contract in the uterus (womb) and the mammary glands in the breast. In males, oxytocin helps move sperm. Animal studies have shown that oxytocin also has a role in pair bonding, mate-guarding, and social memory for both men and women.

Answer 57

Also called milk ducts, mammary ducts, and galactophores. They are ducts responsible for delivering the milk to the surface of the skin and out of the mother through tiny pores in the nipple. These ducts form a tree-branch-like network that converges at the nipple.

Answer 58

The colored surface area around the nipple, present in both men and women.

Answer 59

large sebaceous glands on the areola that secrete skin oils that condition the skin while nursing an infant

Answer 60

A raised region of tissue on the surface of the breast from which, in females, milk leaves the breast through the lactiferous ducts to feed an infant. The milk can flow through the nipple passively or it can be ejected by smooth muscle contractions. The nipple is surrounded by the areola, which is often a darker color than the surrounding skin. (A nipple is often called a teat when referring to non-humans.)

Answer 61

also called nipple pores They are the tiny holes on the surface of a nipple that release breast milk. There are estimated to be between 10 and 20 of them. (Therefore, a nipple is NOT one big hole.)

Answer 62

Also called blebs or blocked nipple pores, although blebs can refer to any blister on the nipple. It occurs when a tiny bit of skin overgrows a milk duct opening and milk backs up behind it. It causes discomfort and pain, although it is often treated by the woman herself since a warm saline soak and gentle washing may open the blister and cause it to drain.

Answer 63

also known as pelvic inflammatory disorder (PID) It is an infection of the upper part of the female reproductive system, namely the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, and inside of the pelvis. Often, there may be no symptoms. Signs and symptoms, when present, may include lower abdominal pain, vaginal discharge, fever, burning with urination, pain with sex, bleeding after sex, or irregular menstruation. Untreated PID can result in long-term complications including infertility, ectopic pregnancy, chronic pelvic pain, and cancer.

Answer 64

It is a female sex organ present in mammals, ostriches and a limited number of other animals. In humans, the visible portion of the clitoris (called the glans) sits between the labia minora at the top of the vulva, above the vaginal opening and the urethral opening. The rest of the clitoris is hidden by a fold of skin which is part of the inner labia; this fold of skin is called the clitoral hood. The clitoris is the human female's most sensitive erogenous zone and generally the primary anatomical source of human female sexual pleasure.

Answer 65

A thin piece of mucosal tissue that surrounds or partially covers the external vaginal opening. In children, a common appearance of the hymen is crescent-shaped, although many shapes are possible. During puberty, estrogen causes the hymen to change in appearance and become very elastic. Normal variations of the post-pubertal hymen range from thin and stretchy to thick and somewhat rigid. Or very rarely, it may be completely absent. The hymen can rip or tear during first penetrative intercourse, which usually results in pain and, sometimes, mild temporary bleeding or spotting. Sources differ on how common tearing or bleeding after first intercourse are. The state of the hymen is not a reliable indicator of virginity, although it continues to be considered so in certain cultures.

Answer 66

also known as perineotomy A surgical incision of the perineum and the posterior vaginal wall generally done by a midwife or obstetrician. Episiotomy is usually performed during the second stage of labor to quickly enlarge the opening for the baby to pass through.

Answer 67

The main nerve of the perineum. It carries sensation from the external genitalia of both sexes and the skin around the anus and perineum, as well as the motor supply to various pelvic muscles, including the male or female external urethral sphincter and the external anal sphincter. If damaged, most commonly by childbirth, lesions may cause sensory loss or fecal incontinence.

Answer 68

the first occurrence of menstruation

Answer 69

The failure to have a menstrual period. It occurs in some female athletes, probably resulting from a body fat composition that is too low to sustain normal reproductive function. Although it keeps the hematocrit (red blood cell level) higher than during menstruation, it is not considered a desirable condition. Besides infertility, amenorrhea may cause other problems. For example, the low blood levels of estrogen associated with long-term amenorrhea may cause osteoporosis (loss of bone mass).

Answer 70

the medical practice dealing with the health of the female reproductive system

Answer 71

The field of medicine that focuses on diseases of the urinary tract of both genders, as well as the male reproductive tract.

Answer 72

also called reproductive nurses They care for a variety of individuals, couples, and families who seek counseling or treatment options related to reproductive health. They commonly work with women struggling with infertility, couples having difficulty with conception, or women going through menopause.

Answer 73

1. producing sexual excitement or libidinal gratification when stimulated: sexually sensitive 2. of, relating to, or arousing sexual feelings (libidinal refers to libido, the technical term for a person's desire to have sex)