JSS 2: Reproductive system

The reproductive (genital) system is the biological system made up of all the anatomical organs involved in sexual reproduction.

The major function of the reproductive system is to ensure continuity of life. Without reproduction, there cannot be an increase in population.

              Male reproductive organs

Parts of the male reproductive organs

1. Testes: The testes are the primary organs of reproduction in the male. They are located in the scrotum, which is the skin sac. The testes have two primary functions:

• Produce sperm or spermatozoa, i.e. male sex cell (gamete)

• Produce testosterone (the primary male sex hormone)

2. Scrotum: The scrotum is the thick-skinned sac that surrounds and protects the testes. It helps to regulate the temperature of the testes because they need to be kept cooler than the body temperature to produce sperm.

.               Human male sperm 

3. Epididymis: The epididymis collects sperm from the testes and stores it for maturation. It provides the environment for sperm to mature and acquire the ability to move through the female reproductive system and fertilize an ovum.

4. Vas deferens: The vas deferens transports matured sperm from the epididymis to the urethra in preparation for ejaculation 

5. Accessory glands: The accessory glands are the;

• Seminal vesicle 

• Prostate glands 

They provide fluids that lubricate and nourish the sperm

     Female reproductive organs 

Parts of the female reproductive organs 

1. Ovary: It is the primary organ of reproduction in the female. It has two functions:

• Production of the ovum (egg), i.e. female sex cell (gamete)

• Production of estrogen and progesterone (the primary female sex hormone)

2. Fallopian tube (Oviduct): It is the connecting tube between the ovary and the uterus. The main function of the fallopian tube is to assist in the transfer and transport of the ovum from the ovary, to the uterus. Fertilization occurs also in the tube.

3. Uterus (Womb): The uterus is where a fetus (unborn baby) develops and grows.

It plays a critical role in menstruation, fertility, and pregnancy.

4. Cervix: The cervix is a small canal that connects the uterus and vagina. It allows fluids to leave and enter the uterus. During childbirth, the cervix widens so that a baby can be born.

5. Vagina: The vagina is an external muscular canal that leads the uterus outside. The functions of the vagina are:

• it connects the vulva and cervix 

• for sexual intercourse 

• serves as a passage for menstruation 

• serves as a passage for the baby from the uterus 

• serves as a passage for sexually transmitted diseases.

6. Vulva: It is the opening end of the vagina.

          Care of the reproductive system 

The following should be done to take care of the reproductive system:

1. Abstain from sex before marriage 

2. Do not engage in any abortion of pregnancy 

3. Clean your external sex organ every day 

4. Change your underwear as often as it is necessary 

5. Wash your underwear immediately after use 

6. Keep your clean underwear in a clean place 

7. Whenever some symptoms of sexual diseases are noticed, contact a medical doctor.

                ASSIGNMENT 

1. Explain the following;

a. Reproduction 

b. Fertilisation 

2. State the first product of fertilisation 

3. Rearrange the following in the correct order:

       Foetus → zygote → embryo