The Reproductive System

Female Reproductive System The hormone estrogen is largely responsible for changes in the female reproductive system Menstruation Monthly period (28-30 days) Day 1 is first day of period Ovulation occurs between days 13-17 (different for every woman and every cycle) Occurs if a woman does not get pregnant Lasts 4-7 days Body rids of endometrial lining (lining of uterus)

Female Reproductive System Ovulation Ovaries release an egg Ovulation rotates between the two ovaries (i.e. January: right side, February: left side) Travels through fallopian tube If fertilized, attaches to uterine wall If not fertilized, menstruation occurs the following month Egg can survive 12-24 hours inside the woman’s body

Female Reproductive System Concerns with Menstruation Cramps (occurs as uterus contracts to get rid of lining) Nausea Headaches Backaches Feeling Bloated Fatigue Premenstrual Syndrome (Pre=BEFORE) Products for Menstruation Pads Panty Liners Tampons Midol/Medication

Male Reproductive System Testes create sperm Vas Deferens (tubular structure) sends sperm to urethra so it can leave the body Temperature regulation is important for sperm Testes contract and expand to help regulate temperature When the outside temperature is cold, they move towards the man’s body to keep warmth When the outside temperature is warm, they move away from the body to keep cool. Sperm can survive up to 72 hours in a woman’s body

Reproduction The development of a new individual is a complex process that begins when a sperm cell from a man and an egg cell from a woman unite The joining of egg and sperm is call fertilization When they unite, they attach to the uterine wall therefore, not allowing menstruation for the woman to take place. First sign of pregnancy = missed period

Stages of Development Zygote (fertilized egg): first two weeks Embryo: 3rd through 8th week of life Fetus: 8th to 40th week of life Delivery should occur at 40 weeks Calculated based on first day of last period and size of baby as it develops

The Placenta The zygote (fertilized egg) attaches to the uterine wall. It then creates an organ called the placenta. Nutrients and oxygen are passed from the placenta to the embryo/fetus The embryo is also wrapped in a protective covering called the amniotic sac.

Placenta and Fetus