The Reproductive System

The Reproductive System What does the reproductive system do? How do the parts of the male reproduction system work together? How do the parts of the female reproductive system work together?

Functions of the Reproductive System A reproductive system is a group of tissues and organs in humans. It enables the male and female reproductive cells to join and form new offspring. Human males produce sperm, the male reproductive cells, and human females produce ova (eggs), the female reproductive cells.

Functions of the Reproductive System (cont.) During reproduction, a sperm joins with an ovum (egg) inside a female’s reproductive system. Ovum (egg) Sperm

The Male Reproductive System The main function of the male reproductive system is to produce and transport sperm to the female reproductive system. The testis is the male reproductive organ that produces sperm.

The Male Reproductive System (cont.) Once sperm develop, they move to a tube called the sperm duct where they are stored. As mature sperm move through the remainder of the male reproductive system, they mix with fluids produced by several glands creating a mixture called semen.

The Male Reproductive System (cont.) The penis is a tubelike structure that delivers sperm to the female reproductive system.

The Female Reproductive System Female reproductive systems produce immature eggs called oocytes. An ovary is an organ where oocytes are stored and mature. A mature oocyte is called an egg, or ovum. Females have two ovaries.

The Female Reproductive System (cont.) About once a month, an ovary releases an egg into the fallopian tube. Short, hairlike structures called cilia move the egg through the fallopian tube toward the uterus. If the egg is fertilized by a sperm, the uterus provides a nourishing environment for a fertilized egg’s development.