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23: Reproductive Systems

Last updated

Apr 1, 2025
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- 22.6: Practice Practical- Urinary System
- 23.1: Introduction to the Reproductive System

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Note

This chapter is focused on the anatomy of the reproductive systems. A person with two X chromosomes (XX) will typically have ovaries for gonads and is genotypically classified as female. A person with one X chromosome and one Y chromosome (XY) will typically have testes for gonads and is genotypically classified as male. These two typical presentations are essentially opposite ends of a genotypic scale and differences in many genes and in epigenetics result in reproductive anatomy between these two poles. Sexual genotype and anatomy is not necessarily linked to gender identity or to sexuality.

In this chapter and in chapter 24, we will use the phrases "male", "XY", and "an individual with testes" to describe the anatomy of an individual with testes that may make sperm and who had Wolffian duct development. We will use the phrases "female", "XX", and "an individual with ovaries" to describe the anatomy of an individual with ovaries that may make ova (eggs) and who had Müllerian duct development.

23.1: Introduction to the Reproductive System
In this chapter, you will explore the anatomy of the male and female reproductive systems, whose healthy functioning can culminate in the powerful sound of a newborn’s first cry.
23.2: Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System
Details on male reproductive organs and hormones, responsible for making sperms and transporting sperms to the egg for fertilization, will be discussed.
23.3: Anatomy of the Female Reproductive System
The female reproductive system functions to produce eggs and reproductive hormones, just like the male reproductive system; however, it also has the additional task of supporting the developing embryo and fetus and delivering it to the outside world at birth. Details on the anatomy of the female reproductive system will be covered in this section.
23.4: Development of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems
The development of the reproductive systems begins soon after fertilization of the egg, with primordial gonads beginning to develop approximately one month after conception. Reproductive development continues in utero, but there is little change in the reproductive system between infancy and puberty.
23.5: Practice Practical- the Reproductive System
Practice Exam Problems
23.6: Anatomical Atlas - Reproductive Systems

Note

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