Reproductive System - Study Guide
MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
Functions of Testosterone:
- Development of male reproductive organs during fetal life
- Descent of testes
- Development of secondary sexual characteristics
- Stimulates spermatogenesis
- Increases libido
- Promotes protein synthesis and bone growth
- Stimulates RBC production
Functions of Sertoli Cells:
- Nourish developing sperm cells
- Form blood-testis barrier
- Secrete inhibin (inhibits FSH)
- Secrete androgen-binding protein (binds testosterone)
- Secrete Müllerian inhibiting substance
Cryptorchidism:
- Undescended testes
- Causes infertility if uncorrected
- Increases testicular cancer risk
Spermatogenesis:
- Site: Seminiferous tubules
- Steps: Spermatogonia -> Primary spermatocyte -> Secondary spermatocyte -> Spermatids -> Spermatozoa
- Regulated by FSH (Sertoli cells), LH (Leydig cells -> testosterone), inhibin and testosterone feedback
Semen Composition:
- Spermatozoa, seminal fluid (fructose, prostaglandins), prostatic fluid (enzymes), mucus from bulbourethral glands
Reproductive System - Study Guide
FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
Menstrual Cycle:
- Definition: 28-day cyclic changes in reproductive tract for fertilization
Phases:
- Ovarian: Follicular -> Ovulation -> Luteal
- Uterine: Menstrual -> Proliferative -> Secretory
Hormonal Regulation:
- FSH: Follicle growth
- LH: Ovulation and corpus luteum
- Estrogen: Endometrial proliferation
- Progesterone: Secretory phase
Hypothalamo-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis:
- GnRH -> FSH & LH -> Ovaries -> Estrogen & Progesterone
Ovulation:
- Release of ovum (Day 14), triggered by LH surge
Tests of Ovulation:
- LH kits, basal body temp rise, USG, cervical mucus, endometrial biopsy
Important Terms:
- Menarche: First menstruation
- Menopause: Cessation of menstruation
- Menorrhagia: Heavy/prolonged bleeding
PREGNANCY & LACTATION
Reproductive System - Study Guide
Tests of Pregnancy:
- Detect hCG in urine or blood
Lactation:
- Milk synthesis: Prolactin-dependent
- Milk ejection: Oxytocin-triggered by suckling
Lactational Amenorrhea:
- Prolactin inhibits GnRH -> No ovulation
CONTRACEPTION
Male Contraception:
- Temporary: Condoms, withdrawal
- Permanent: Vasectomy
Female Contraception:
- Temporary: Barrier, hormonal, IUCDs
- Permanent: Tubectomy
Oral Pills Mechanism:
- Estrogen + progesterone suppress LH/FSH
- Prevent ovulation, thicken mucus, alter endometrium
FETOPLACENTAL UNIT & HORMONES
Fetoplacental Unit:
- Fetus + placenta collaborate for hormone synthesis
Reproductive System - Study Guide
Placental Hormones:
- hCG: Maintains corpus luteum
- hPL: Ensures fetal nutrition
- Estrogen: Uterine & breast growth
- Progesterone: Maintains pregnancy
Ovarian Hormones:
- Estrogen: Endometrial growth, secondary sex traits
- Progesterone: Endometrium, breast development, pregnancy maintenance