Human Reproduction Flashcards
What is the function of the testes?
Where sperm cells are formed by meiosis. Produced hormone testosterone.
What is the function of the sperm duct?
Maturing sperm are transported along this tube.
What is the function of the seminal vesicles and prostate gland?
Release liquids into the sperm duct, which mixes with sperm cells to form semen. Liquid provides nutrients for sperm.
What is the function of the penis?
Transports urine and semen out of the body. Contains tissue which fills with blood to become erect; this helps pass the semen out of the body and into the female’s vagina during sexual intercourse.
What is the function of the ovary?
Where egg cells are formed by meiosis (in the follicle). Produces the hormones oestrogen and progesterone.
What is the function of the oviduct?
Egg cell travels down this to the uterus. Lined with cilia which move the cell. Site of fertilisation.
What is the function of the uterus (womb)?
A lining forms in the uterus, where the embryo will implant. The foetus develops in the uterus, which has a thick muscular wall. This contracts during labour.
What is the function of the cervix?
Narrow opening to the uterus. This dilates during labour, to allow the baby to be born.
What is the function of the vagina?
Muscular tube that leads from the cervix to the outside of the woman’s body. A man’s penis goes into the woman’s vagina during sexual intercourse and the baby passes through the vagina when it is born.
What is the first cell formed at fertilisation known as?
The zygote.
What is the function of the placenta?
-Secretes progesterone to ensure uterus lining remains thick, prevents abortion
-Provides nutrients and oxygen
-Removes metabolic waste - carbon dioxide and urea
Why are the circulatory systems of the mother and embryo seperate?
-The mothers blood pressure is much higher than the fetal blood
-The mother’s blood has white blood cells and other chemicals that would see the fetal blood as foreign, and attack it
What is the amnion?
A membrane that encloses the developing embryo.
What does the amnion do?
It secretes a fluid called amniotic fluid, which protects the developing embryo against jolts and bumps, drying out, and temperature fluctuations.
