Accessory Glands and Penis

Accessory glands contribute to seminal fluid production:

• Seminal vesicles
• Prostate gland
• Cowper's glands

Seminal fluid functions:

• Nourishes sperm
• Facilitates sperm motility
• Creates an appropriate environment for fertilization

The penis:

• Expels both urine and semen
• Delivers sperm into the female reproductive tract during intercourse

Vocabulary: Seminal fluid - The liquid component of semen that supports and transports sperm

Highlight: Accessory glands produce seminal fluid, which is crucial for sperm survival and function outside the male body.

Oogenesis: Egg Cell Formation

Oogenesis is the process of egg cell formation that occurs in the ovaries:

• Begins with oogonia in ovarian follicles
• Primary oocytes form and enter meiosis during fetal development
• One egg matures and is released monthly after puberty
• Fertilization occurs when the egg meets sperm in the fallopian tube

Definition: Oogenesis is the formation of egg cells through meiosis from oogonia in the ovaries.

Example: During each menstrual cycle, one egg typically matures and is released from the ovary.

Uterus, Cervix, and Vagina

The uterus is the organ where embryo implantation and fetal development occur. Key features include:

• Lined with endometrium rich in blood vessels
• Provides nutrients and protection for the developing fetus

The cervix connects the uterus to the vagina. The vagina:

• Is the external opening of the female reproductive tract
• Allows passage of menstrual flow and sperm
• Serves as the birth canal during labor

Definition: The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus that thickens monthly to support potential pregnancy.

Highlight: The uterus, cervix, and vagina work together to support reproduction from conception through birth.

Testes and Sperm Production

The testes are paired organs located in the scrotum that:

• Produce sperm cells in seminiferous tubules
• Synthesize testosterone in Leydig cells

Spermatogenesis occurs within seminiferous tubules:

• Begins with spermatogonia
• Involves meiosis to produce haploid spermatids
• Results in mature sperm cells

Vocabulary: Spermatogenesis - The process of sperm cell formation in the testes

Example: Millions of sperm are produced daily in the seminiferous tubules of adult males.