36Reproductive system

πŸ“š
FOLLICLE STRUCTURE

Table 1: Graafian Follicle Layers

S.N.
Structure
1
Theca externa
2
Theca interna
3
Basement membrane
4
Granulosa cells
5
Cumulus oophorus cells
6
Corona radiata cells
7
Zona pellucida
8
Perivitelline space
9
Oocyte
πŸ“š
FEMALE PELVIC ANATOMY

Table 1: Female Reproductive Anatomy

No.
Structure
1
Vulva
2
Labia majora
3
Labia minora
4
Vestibule
5
Clitoris
6
Glans
7
Body of clitoris
8
Bulb of vestibule
9
Vagina
10
Hymen
11
Lumen
12
Wall
13
Lateral fornix
14
Uterus
15
Cervix
16
Body
17
Fundus
18
External + internal orifices
19
Cervical canal
20
Uterine cavity
21
Endometrium
22
Myometrium
23
Perimetrium
24
Fallopian tube
25
Isthmus
26
Ampulla
27
Infundibulum
28
Fimbria
29
Fimbria ovarica
30
Ovary
31
Visceral pelvic peritoneum
32
Broad ligament
33
Mesosalpinx
34
Mesovarium
35
Mesometrium
36
Round ligament
37
Ovarian ligament
38
Suspensory ligament of ovary
39
Ovarian artery + vein
40
Uterine artery + veins
41
Vaginal artery + veins
42
Ureter
43
Pelvic floor / Levator ani
44
Femoral head
45
Hip bone
46
Internal iliac vessels β†’ anterior branches
47
External iliac vessels
48
Abdominal cavity
πŸ“š
HOMOLOGOUS ORGANS

Table 1: Male–Female Homology

Male
Female
Cowper's gland / Bulbourethral gland / Perineal gland
Bartholin gland
Prostate gland
Skene's gland
Penis
Clitoris
Scrotum
Labia majora
Vasa deferentia + anterior part of penis / spongy penis
Labia minora
Seminal vesicle
Uterus
πŸ“š
INTRODUCTION
β–’ Primary Sex Organ: Organ β†’ gamete + hormone secretion
β–’ Secondary / Accessory Sex Organs: Remaining reproductive organs
β–’ Male Primary Sex Organ: Testis β†’ sperm + androgens mainly testosterone
β–’ Female Primary Sex Organ: Ovary β†’ ovum + estrogen + progesterone
β–’ Highest Reproductive Control Centre: Hypothalamus
β–’ Female Secondary / Accessory Sex Organs:
  • β€’
    Fallopian tube
  • β€’
    Uterus
  • β€’
    Vagina
  • β€’
    Vulva
  • β€’
    Bartholin's gland
  • β€’
    Paraurethral glands
β–’ Development:
  • β€’
    Reproductive system β†’ mesoderm
  • β€’
    Male genital tract β†’ mesonephric / Wolffian duct
  • β€’
    Female genital tract β†’ paramesonephric / MΓΌllerian duct
  • β€’
    Male differentiation β†’ testosterone + MΓΌllerian-inhibiting factor + TDF + DHT
β–’ Duct Derivatives:

Table 1: Embryological Derivatives

Sex
Structure
Origin
Male
Epididymis + vas deferens
Wolffian / mesonephric duct
Male
Seminal vesicle
Regression of MΓΌllerian duct
Male
Prostate
Urogenital sinus
Male
Penis
Genital tubercle
Female
Fallopian tube + uterus + vagina
MΓΌllerian / paramesonephric duct
Female
Clitoris
Genital tubercle
β–’ Maturity:

Table 1: Maturity Terms

Term
Meaning
Puberty
Age of sexual maturity
Adolescence
Age of mental maturity
πŸ“š
MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
β–’ Primary Sex Organ: Testis
β–’ Secondary Sex Organs:
  • β€’
    Scrotum
  • β€’
    Epididymis
  • β€’
    Vas deferens
  • β€’
    Seminal vesicle
  • β€’
    Ejaculatory duct
  • β€’
    Prostate
  • β€’
    Urethra
  • β€’
    Penis
β–’ Scrotum:
❖ Dartos Muscle: Present
❖ Spermatic Cord:
β—‰ Course: Testis ↔ abdominal cavity via inguinal canal
β—‰ Contents:
  • β€’
    Artery
  • β€’
    Vein
  • β€’
    Lymph vessel
  • β€’
    Nerve
  • β€’
    Cremaster muscle
  • β€’
    Vas deferens
❖ Descent of Testes:
  • β€’
    Scrotal temperature β†’ 2–3Β°C below abdominal cavity
  • β€’
    Required for spermatogenic tissue maintenance + spermatogenesis
  • β€’
    Failure of descent β†’ cryptorchidism
❖ Abdominal Testes: Whale + elephant
β–’ Testes:
❖ Attachment: Gubernaculum / modified mesorchium β†’ testis attached to scrotum
❖ Position: Left testis slightly lower than right
❖ Layers:

Table 1: Testicular Layers

Layer
Feature
Tunica vaginalis
Outermost; covers testis anteriorly only
Tunica albuginea
Fibrous protective layer
Tunica vasculosa
Vascular layer
❖ Hydrocele: Serous fluid collection in tunica vaginalis
❖ Lobules:
  • β€’
    Each testis β†’ 200–300 testicular lobules
  • β€’
    Septa from tunica albuginea divide lobules
  • β€’
    Each lobule β†’ 2–3 seminiferous tubules
❖ Seminiferous Tubules:
β—‰ Functional Unit: Functional unit of testis
β—‰ Epithelium: Germinal epithelium β†’ cuboidal
β—‰ Wall Cells:

Table 1: Seminiferous Tubule Cells

Cell
Function / Note
Spermatogonia / Spermatogenic cells
Develop into sperms
Sertoli / Somatic / Nursing / Supporting / Sustentacular cells
Nourish sperms; controlled by FSH
❖ Sertoli Cells:
β—‰ Functions:
  • β€’
    Nutrition to growing sperms
  • β€’
    Spermiogenesis support β†’ remove extra cytoplasm from spermatid
  • β€’
    Phagocytosis of injured / dead sperm cells
  • β€’
    Secrete anti-MΓΌllerian hormone
  • β€’
    Secrete inhibin β†’ ↓ FSH release from anterior pituitary
  • β€’
    Form blood-testis barrier
  • β€’
    Prevent direct sperm–blood contact
❖ Leydig / Interstitial Cells:
β—‰ Location: Between seminiferous tubules
β—‰ Hormone: Testosterone
β—‰ Stimulus: ICSH / LH
β—‰ Testosterone Functions:
  • β€’
    Development of male reproductive tissues β†’ testis + prostate
  • β€’
    Maturation of sex organs β†’ penis + scrotum
  • β€’
    Male secondary sexual characters β†’ muscle mass + bone mass + body hair
  • β€’
    Normal sperm development
  • β€’
    Anabolic steroid hormone β†’ ↑ muscle growth + bone density + strength
β—‰ Other Androgens:
  • β€’
    Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
  • β€’
    Androstenedione
  • β€’
    Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
❖ Rete Testis:
  • β€’
    Part of seminiferous tubule
  • β€’
    Network testis
  • β€’
    Lined by cuboidal epithelium
❖ Orchidectomy / Castration: Surgical removal of testis
β–’ Vasa Efferentia:
❖ Definition: 12–20 fine tubules connecting rete testis β†’ caput epididymis
❖ Epithelium: Ciliated β†’ sperm conduction
β–’ Epididymis:
❖ Definition: Highly coiled tubule on inner wall of testis
❖ Length:

Table 1: Epididymis Length

Animal
Length
Rabbit
3 m
Human
6 m
❖ Function: Sperm gains motility; no secretion of its own
❖ Parts:

Table 1: Parts of Epididymis

Part
Synonym
Connection
Head
Caput epididymis / Globus major
Epididymis ↔ testis
Body
Corpus epididymis / Globus normal
Middle part
Tail
Cauda epididymis / Globus minor
Epididymis ↔ vas deferens
β–’ Vas Deferens:
❖ Definition: Continuation of cauda epididymis
❖ Length: β‰ˆ 45 cm
❖ Course:
  1. Slightly coiled initially
  2. Straightens β†’ enters abdominal cavity through inguinal canal
  3. Passes over urinary bladder
  4. Curves around ureter
  5. Joins duct of seminal vesicle β†’ ejaculatory duct
❖ Ampulla: Spindle-like terminal enlargement β†’ temporary sperm storage
❖ Epithelium: Ciliated columnar epithelium
❖ Homology: Homologous with labia minora of female
❖ Vasectomy: Surgical ligation of vas deferens β†’ permanent male family planning
β–’ Seminal Vesicle / Uterus Masculinus:
❖ Semen Contribution: β‰ˆ 60%
❖ Secretion:
  • β€’
    Fructose
  • β€’
    Citrate
  • β€’
    Inositol
  • β€’
    Prostaglandins
  • β€’
    Proteins
❖ Fructose:
  • β€’
    Nutrition of sperms
  • β€’
    Fructose test β†’ forensic test for rape
❖ Development: MΓΌllerian duct of embryo
β–’ Ejaculatory Duct: Vas deferens + duct of seminal vesicle β†’ ejaculatory duct
β–’ Prostate Gland:
❖ Position: Base of urinary bladder; apex downward + base upward
❖ Secretion: Acidic fluid due to citric acid
❖ Semen Contribution: 15–30%
❖ Functions:
  • β€’
    Nourishes spermatozoa
  • β€’
    Activates spermatozoa for swimming
  • β€’
    Essential for sperm motility
  • β€’
    Removal β†’ sterility
❖ Homology: Skene's gland in female
β–’ Cowper's Gland / Bulbourethral Gland:
❖ Presence: Male mammals
❖ Secretion: Alkaline mucus
❖ Functions:
  • β€’
    Lubricant during sexual intercourse
  • β€’
    Neutralizes acidic urethra after micturition
β–’ Perineal & Rectal Glands:
❖ Human: Absent
❖ Rabbit: Present in both male + female
❖ Location: Around external genital organs + perineum + anus
❖ Breeding Season Secretion:
  • β€’
    Odoriferous liquid
  • β€’
    Pheromones / ectohormones
  • β€’
    Sexual attraction
  • β€’
    Copulation desire
β–’ Urethra:
❖ Parts:
  • β€’
    Prostatic urethra
  • β€’
    Spongy urethra
  • β€’
    Penile urethra
β–’ Penis:
❖ Definition: Erectile male copulatory organ
❖ Homology: Clitoris of female
❖ Erectile Tissues:

Table 1: Erectile Tissues

Tissue
Number
Note
Corpus spongiosum
1
Urethra passes through it
Corpora cavernosa
2
Main erectile bodies
❖ Glans Penis: Anterior enlarged part
❖ Prepuce / Foreskin: Fold of skin covering glans penis
❖ Smegma: Secretion of preputial glands / glands of Tyson
❖ Circumcision:
β—‰ Definition: Surgical removal of foreskin
β—‰ Benefits:
  • β€’
    ↓ UTI risk
  • β€’
    ↓ HIV risk
  • β€’
    ↓ penile cancer risk
  • β€’
    Prevents smegma collection
❖ Autonomic Control:

Table 1: Point & Shoot

Action
Autonomic supply
Erection
Parasympathetic
Ejaculation
Sympathetic
❖ Erection Mechanism: NO-mediated vasodilatation of penile arteries β†’ erectile tissue stimulation + peripheral venous obstruction
❖ Viagra / Sildenafil Citrate: Drug for impotency / erectile failure
β–’ Semen:

Table 1: Semen Composition

Component
Contribution
Seminal vesicle
60% β†’ fructose for sperm nutrition
Prostate
30%
Cowper's gland
5%
Sperm
5%

Table 2: Semen Values

Parameter
Value
Nature
Alkaline
Normal volume
3 mL / ejaculation
Normal sperm count
300 million / 3 mL = 100 million/mL
Sperm velocity
3 mm/min
πŸ“š
FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
β–’ Ovary:
❖ Introduction:
  • β€’
    Primary sex organ of female
  • β€’
    Attached to uterus by ovarian ligament
  • β€’
    Attached to pelvic wall by suspensory ligament
  • β€’
    Mesovarium = part of broad ligament covering ovary
  • β€’
    Intraperitoneal organ
  • β€’
    Hilum β†’ entry of blood vessels + nerves
❖ Structure:

Table 1: Ovary Structure

Layer / Region
Feature
Germinal epithelium
Outermost; cuboidal / squamous epithelium
Ova-forming cells
Originate from yolk sac β†’ migrate to ovaries
Tunica albuginea
Whitish fibrous protective capsule; dense irregular CT; below germinal epithelium
Ovarian cortex
Below tunica albuginea; follicles + dense irregular CT + collagen + stromal cells
Ovarian medulla
Deep to cortex; loose CT + blood vessels + lymphatics + nerves
Ovarian follicles
Oocytes at various stages + surrounding follicular / granulosa cells
❖ Follicular Cycle:
β—‰ Key Points:
  • β€’
    Oogenesis = gamete formation in ovaries
  • β€’
    Spermatogenesis begins at puberty
  • β€’
    Oogenesis begins before birth
  • β€’
    Mitosis + meiosis involved in gamete formation
  • β€’
    Germ cells migrate from yolk sac to ovaries
β—‰ Follicular Development:
  1. Primordial germ cells β†’ oogonia
  2. Oogonia surrounded by flat squamous follicular cells
  3. Oogonia β†’ mitosis β†’ meiosis entry
  4. Primordial follicles β†’ ovum arrested at Prophase I + follicular cells
  5. After menarche: primordial follicles β†’ primary follicles
  6. Primary follicle β†’ 15–20/cycle; flat squamous cells β†’ multilayered columnar granulosa cells
  7. Primary follicle β†’ secondary follicle
  8. Secondary follicle β†’ larger fluid cavity β†’ Graafian follicle
  9. Graafian follicle ruptures β†’ ovulation
  10. Ruptured follicle β†’ corpus luteum
  11. Corpus luteum degeneration β†’ corpus albicans
β—‰ Secondary Follicle Components:
  • β€’
    Innermost developing oocyte
  • β€’
    Acellular zona pellucida
  • β€’
    Granulosa cell layer
  • β€’
    Theca cell layer β†’ theca interna + theca externa
β—‰ Antrum: Cavity in granulosa layer containing liquor folliculi
β—‰ Corona Radiata: Granulosa cells surrounding ovum
β—‰ Cumulus Oophorus / Discus Proligerous / Germ Hill: Cells attaching oocyte to follicular wall
β—‰ Graafian Follicle:
  • β€’
    Mature follicle in human / rabbit ovary
  • β€’
    Granulosa cells β†’ estrogen
  • β€’
    Theca cells β†’ androgen β†’ converted to estrogen by granulosa cells
β—‰ Estrogen:
β—ˆ Identity: Female sex hormone
β—ˆ Functions:
  • β€’
    Endometrial proliferation / increased thickness
  • β€’
    Negative feedback β†’ prevents multiple ovulations
  • β€’
    Female secondary sexual characteristics
  • β€’
    Calcium deposition in bones
  • β€’
    Opposes parathormone
  • β€’
    Thinner cervical mucus β†’ sperm penetration
  • β€’
    Menopause due to estrogen cessation
β—‰ Ovulation:
β—ˆ Definition: Graafian follicle rupture β†’ release of secondary oocyte at Metaphase II
β—ˆ Main Trigger: LH surge
β—ˆ Hormones: FSH + LH both involved; LH surge greater role
β—‰ Corpus Luteum:
β—ˆ Formation: After ovulation / rupture of Graafian follicle
β—ˆ Hormones:
  • β€’
    Estrogen β†’ small amount
  • β€’
    Progesterone
  • β€’
    Relaxin
  • β€’
    Inhibin
β—ˆ Relaxin: Relaxes pelvis + uterine ligaments during delivery
β—ˆ Inhibin: Negative feedback β†’ ↓ FSH β†’ prevents multiple ovulations
β—‰ Progesterone:
β—ˆ Synonym: Hormone of pregnancy
β—ˆ Functions:
  • β€’
    Development of glands + blood vessels in endometrium
  • β€’
    Thick endometrium β†’ favourable implantation environment
  • β€’
    Prevents ovulation during pregnancy
  • β€’
    Thick cervical mucus β†’ prevents sperm penetration
  • β€’
    Helps embryogenesis
β—‰ OCP:
β—ˆ Full Form: Oral contraceptive pill
β—ˆ Use: Appropriate contraception for newly married couple
β—ˆ Mechanisms:
  • β€’
    Inhibits ovulation
  • β€’
    Prevents fertilization via endometrial atrophy / hypertrophy
  • β€’
    Thick cervical mucus plug β†’ blocks sperm entry
β—‰ Fertilization Outcome:

Table 1: After Ovulation

Condition
Events
Fertilized ovum
Zygote β†’ uterus β†’ implantation at posterior fundus β†’ blastocyst stage day 6–7 β†’ placenta β†’ HCG β†’ corpus luteum maintained β†’ progesterone maintained β†’ pregnancy
Unfertilized ovum
Ovum dies after β‰ˆ 24 h β†’ corpus luteum degenerates β†’ corpus albicans β†’ progesterone stops β†’ stratum functionalis degenerates + sheds with dead egg β†’ menstruation
β—‰ HCG:
  • β€’
    Secreted by placenta
  • β€’
    Maintains corpus luteum after pregnancy
  • β€’
    Used in urine pregnancy test (UPT)
❖ Menstrual Cycle:
β—‰ Menarche: Start of menstruation
β—‰ Menopause: Stoppage of menstruation
β—‰ Cycle Length: Every 28 days; normal range 21–35 days

Table 1: Menstrual Cycle Phases

Days
Phase
Main events
1–4
Menstrual / Bleeding phase
Shedding of endometrium
5–14
Follicular / Proliferative / Pre-ovulatory / Estrogen phase
Follicle development primary β†’ Graafian; endometrial proliferation under estrogen
14
Ovulation
LH surge β†’ release of secondary oocyte
15–28
Luteal / Secretory / Postovulatory / Progesterone phase
Corpus luteum formation; endometrial secretory changes due to progesterone
β—‰ Hormone Peaks:

Table 1: Hormone Peaks

Hormone
Peak day
Estrogen
Day 12
Progesterone
Day 21
β—‰ Safe Period: 1st day of menstruation Β± 7 days
❖ Estrous Cycle:
β—‰ Occurrence: Non-primates only during breeding season
β—‰ Menstruation: Absent
β—‰ Heat Period: ↑ estrogen β†’ ↑ sexual desire

Table 1: Estrous Animals

Type
Meaning
Examples
Monoestrous
One cycle in breeding season
Dog, fox, deer, bat
Polyestrous
More than one cycle in breeding season
Mouse, pig, squirrel, cat
β–’ Fallopian Tube / Uterine Tube / Oviduct / Salpinx:
❖ Length: β‰ˆ 10 cm
❖ Suspension: Mesosalpinx
❖ Development: MΓΌllerian / paramesonephric duct
❖ Parts:

Table 1: Parts of Fallopian Tube

Part
Feature
Infundibulum
Fimbriae at ovarian end; opens into peritoneal cavity; receives secondary oocyte
Ampulla
Outer 2/3; widest + longest; most common site of fertilization
Isthmus
Medial 1/3; narrowest
Intramural / Interstitial part
Shortest; inside uterus / myometrium
❖ Epithelium: Ciliated columnar epithelium
❖ Peg Cells:
  • β€’
    Nourish ovum
  • β€’
    Nourish zygote
  • β€’
    Nourish sperm
  • β€’
    Help sperm capacitation
❖ Conduction:
  • β€’
    Peristalsis
  • β€’
    Ciliary movement
  • β€’
    Peristalsis more important
❖ Ectopic Pregnancy: Most common site
β–’ Uterus / Womb / Hystera:
❖ Shape: Pyriform / pear-shaped hollow muscular organ
❖ Position: Anteflexed + anteverted
❖ Artery: Uterine artery
❖ Layers:

Table 1: Uterine Layers

Layer
Position
Feature
Perimetrium
Outermost
Simple squamous epithelium
Myometrium
Middle
Smooth muscle; thickest
Endometrium
Innermost
Columnar epithelium
β—‰ Endometrium Layers:

Table 1: Endometrium

Layer
Point
Stratum basalis
Basal layer
Stratum functionalis
Functional layer; menstrual changes; shed during menstruation
❖ Parts:

Table 1: Parts of Uterus

Part
Feature
Fundus
Dome-shaped part above fallopian tube opening
Body
Upper 2/3
Cervix
Lower 1/3; narrow; ectocervix + endocervix
β—‰ Cervix:
  • β€’
    Endocervix β†’ opens into uterus by internal os
  • β€’
    Ectocervix β†’ opens into vagina by external os
❖ Implantation:
  • β€’
    Most common site β†’ posterior fundus
  • β€’
    Attachment to uterine wall β†’ progesterone influence
❖ Isthmus: Line demarcating body and cervix
❖ Transformation Zone / Transition Zone:
  • β€’
    Upper part β†’ columnar epithelium
  • β€’
    Lower part β†’ squamous epithelium
  • β€’
    Transition area = transformation zone
  • β€’
    Most common site of cervical cancer
  • β€’
    Pap smear = screening test
❖ Uterine Prolapse: Slipping of uterus from usual position due to weak support; common in multiparous + aged women
❖ Types of Uterus:

Table 1: Types of Uterus

Type
Feature
Example
Duplex
Both uteri completely separated; open independently into vagina via 2 openings
Rat
Bipartite
Lower parts fused; septum present
Carnivorous mammals
Bicornuate
Lower parts fused; partition wall absent
Rabbit
Simplex
Both uteri completely fused into single structure; most developed
Human
β–’ Vagina:
❖ Definition: Tubular female copulatory organ + menstrual flow passage
❖ Length: β‰ˆ 7–9 cm
❖ Epithelium: Non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium
❖ Glycogen: Epithelial cells contain glycogen from puberty to menopause; cyclic changes
❖ Normal Flora: Lactobacillus acidophilus / Doderlein's bacillus
❖ Acidic Environment: Fermentation β†’ lactic acid β†’ inhibits other microorganisms; pH 4–4.5
❖ Vaginal Orifice: Opening of vagina
❖ Hymen:
  • β€’
    Thin membrane partially covering vaginal opening in virgin girl
  • β€’
    Not a reliable test of virginity
  • β€’
    Normally ruptured during first copulation
β–’ Vulva / Female External Genitalia:

Table 1: External Female Genitalia

Structure
Feature / Homology
Mons pubis / Mons veneris
Pad of subcutaneous tissue; covered by pubic hair after puberty
Labia majora
Fold of skin with sebaceous glands + sweat glands + hair follicles; homologous to scrotum
Labia minora
Hairless; homologous to ventral part of penis / spongy urethra
Clitoris
Highly sensitive erectile tissue; glans exposed + covered by prepuce; homologous to penis
Vestibule
Cleft between labia minora; contains openings of vagina + urethra
Perineum
Area between vulva and anal canal
Bartholin's glands
Lateral vaginal wall; greater/lesser vestibular glands; alkaline secretion during sexual excitement; homologous to Cowper's gland
Paraurethral glands of Skene
Sides of urethral opening; homologous to prostate
β–’ Mammary Glands / Breast:
❖ Identity:
  • β€’
    Accessory reproductive organs
  • β€’
    Modified sweat glands
  • β€’
    Apocrine glands
  • β€’
    Located in thorax on pectoralis major
❖ Structure:
  • β€’
    Each breast β†’ 15–20 lobes
  • β€’
    Each lobe β†’ lobules
  • β€’
    Lobules β†’ glandular alveoli β†’ milk secretion
  • β€’
    Small ductules β†’ mammary ducts β†’ lactiferous ducts
  • β€’
    Lactiferous ducts open independently on nipple
  • β€’
    Pigmented area around nipple β†’ areola / areola mammae
  • β€’
    Cooper's ligament present
  • β€’
    Breast + nipple = milk gland
❖ Hormones:

Table 1: Hormones Acting on Breast

Hormone
Source
Function
Prolactin / Lactogenic hormone
Anterior pituitary
Milk formation
Oxytocin
Posterior pituitary
Milk ejection
Estrogen
Ovary / placenta
Growth in overall size + breast development
Progesterone
Ovary / placenta
Growth of alveoli / milk-producing parts
πŸ“š
PUBERTY CHANGES

Table 1: Changes After Puberty

Feature
Girls / 11–14 years
Boys / 12–15 years
Gonads
Ovarian cycle + ovulation begins
Testes enlarge; spermatogenesis begins
Accessory sex organs
Uterus + vagina + fallopian tube + vulva increase in size; endometrial menstrual changes; menstruation occurs
Penis + prostate + seminal vesicles + epididymis grow
Hair + voice
Axillary + pubic hair; no chest/abdomen hair; breasts grow; high-pitched voice
Beard + moustache + axillary + pubic + chest hair; loud + hoarse voice
Somatic
Pelvic girdle bigger than pectoral girdle
Skeletal length increases; muscles bulk + strength; pectoral girdle bigger
Psychic
↑ shyness; attraction toward boys
↑ aggressive behavior; attraction toward girls
Hormonal
↑ FSH + LH + estrogen + progesterone
↑ FSH + LH + testosterone
πŸ“š
GAMETOGENESIS
β–’ General:
  • β€’
    Germ cells = cuboidal epithelium
  • β€’
    Controlled by gonadotropic hormones β†’ FSH, LH, ICSH; mainly FSH
  • β€’
    1 primary spermatocyte β†’ 4 sperms
  • β€’
    1 secondary spermatocyte β†’ 2 sperms
  • β€’
    1 primary oocyte β†’ 1 ovum + 3 polar bodies
  • β€’
    1 secondary oocyte β†’ 1 ovum + 1 polar body
β–’ Sperm Production Flow:
  1. Seminiferous tubules β†’ spermiation
  2. Vasa efferentia
  3. Epididymis β†’ maturation + motility
  4. Vas deferens
  5. Ejaculatory duct
  6. Urethra
  7. Body exterior
β–’ Ovum Development:
  • β€’
    Primary maturation of oocyte β†’ ovary
  • β€’
    Secondary maturation of oocyte β†’ fallopian tube after fertilization
πŸ“š
SPERMATOGENESIS
β–’ Site: Seminiferous tubules of testes
β–’ Duration: β‰ˆ 74 days
β–’ Phases:

Table 1: Spermatogenesis Phases

Phase
Division / Event
Product
Multiplication
Primordial germ cells β†’ repeated mitosis
Diploid spermatogonia
Multiplication
Spermatogonium β†’ mitosis
2 primary spermatocytes
Growth
Primary spermatocyte enlarges
Prepares for maturation division
Maturation
Primary spermatocyte β†’ meiosis I
2 haploid secondary spermatocytes
Maturation
Secondary spermatocytes β†’ meiosis II
4 spermatids
β–’ Spermatid:
  • β€’
    Non-motile
  • β€’
    Heavy
  • β€’
    Contains mitochondria + Golgi bodies + centrioles + nucleus
β–’ Spermiogenesis:
❖ Definition: Metamorphosis of spermatid β†’ spermatozoa
❖ Site: Seminiferous tubules
❖ Changes:
  • β€’
    Loss of cytoplasm
  • β€’
    Acrosome development from Golgi bodies
  • β€’
    Tail development
  • β€’
    Nucleus narrowing
β–’ Release Terms:

Table 1: Sperm Release Terms

Term
Meaning
Spermiation
Release of sperm from Sertoli cells into seminiferous tubule lumen
Semination
Liberation of sperm from testis
Ejaculation
Liberation of sperm from male body
Insemination
Transfer of sperm into female reproductive tract
Capacitation
Sperm gains fertilizing capacity; occurs in female reproductive tract / fallopian tube
πŸ“š
SPERM
β–’ Discovery: First seen by Hamm and Leeuwenhoek
β–’ Survival in Female Tract: 24–48 h after release
β–’ Parts:
  • β€’
    Head
  • β€’
    Neck
  • β€’
    Middle piece / body
  • β€’
    Tail / flagellum
β–’ Head:
❖ Components:
  • β€’
    Acrosome
  • β€’
    Nucleus
❖ Acrosome:
  • β€’
    Cap-like structure
  • β€’
    Anterior nuclear cap / galea capitis
  • β€’
    Hydrolytic enzymes / sperm lysin
  • β€’
    Hyaluronidase β†’ digests hyaluronic acid in corona radiata
  • β€’
    Synthesized by Golgi apparatus
  • β€’
    Acrosome removal β†’ failure to penetrate ovum
❖ Nucleus:
  • β€’
    Chromatin mostly DNA
  • β€’
    Extremely condensed
  • β€’
    Basic protein β†’ protamine
β–’ Neck:

Table 1: Sperm Neck

Structure
Function
Proximal centriole
Helps first cleavage of zygote
Distal centriole
Gives rise to axial filament
β–’ Middle Piece / Body:
❖ Main Component: Mitochondria
❖ Nebenkern Sheath: Mitochondria coiled around axial filament β†’ spiral sheath
❖ Manchette: Cytoplasm around mitochondria
❖ Synonym: Energy chamber / powerhouse of sperm
❖ Annulus / Ring Centriole: At end of middle piece; function unknown
β–’ Tail / Flagellum:
❖ Parts:
  • β€’
    Main piece
  • β€’
    End piece
❖ Function: Flagellar movement β†’ swimming in fluid medium
β–’ Fertilization Entry: Head + neck enter / penetrate ovum
β–’ Motility: Due to head + middle piece
πŸ“š
OOGENESIS
β–’ Phases:

Table 1: Oogenesis Phases

Phase
Event
Product
Multiplication
Primordial cells in ovary divide by mitosis
Oogonia / egg mother cells
Multiplication
Each oogonium divides mitotically
2 primary oocytes
Growth
Primary oocyte increases in size
Longer phase
Maturation
Primary oocyte \((2n)\) β†’ meiosis I
Secondary oocyte \((n)\) + first polar body
Maturation
Secondary oocyte β†’ meiosis II
Ovum / egg + second polar body
β–’ Functional Egg: Only 1 of 4 meiotic products β†’ functional egg; other 3 β†’ nonfunctional polar bodies
β–’ Vitellogenesis: Formation + deposition of yolk in egg
β–’ Yolk Components:
  • β€’
    Major β†’ phospholipids
  • β€’
    Major β†’ proteins
  • β€’
    Least β†’ carbohydrate
πŸ“š
TYPES OF OVUM

Table 1: Egg Types by Yolk Amount

Type
Yolk Amount
Examples
Alecithal
Negligible
Human egg
Microlecithal / Oligolecithal
Very less
Amphioxus; placental mammals e.g. rabbit; metatheria; sea urchin
Mesolecithal
Moderate
Amphibia; Petromyzon; lung fish
Polylecithal / Macrolecithal / Megalecithal
Large
Insects; birds; reptiles
β–’ Exam Note: If both human + rabbit asked β†’ choose microlecithal
πŸ“š
OVUM STRUCTURE
β–’ Shape:
  • β€’
    Mature mammalian ovum β†’ spherical
  • β€’
    Insect eggs β†’ long + cylindrical
β–’ Cytoplasm: Oocytoplasm / ooplasm
β–’ Nucleus: Germinal vesicle
β–’ Nucleolus: Germinal spot
β–’ Coverings:
  1. Plasma membrane / cell membrane
  2. Vitelline membrane
  3. Zona pellucida in mammals β†’ acellular membrane
  4. Corona radiata β†’ thick cellular layer of radially elongated follicular cells
β–’ Perivitelline Space: Narrow space between zona pellucida and plasma membrane
β–’ Animal Pole: Side with polar body
β–’ Fertilization Ability: Human ovum loses fertilizing capacity β‰ˆ 24 h after ovulation
πŸ“š
HIGH-YIELD RECALL

Table 1: Reproductive System One-Liners

Fact
Answer
Primary sex organ of male
Testis
Primary sex organ of female
Ovary
Highest control centre of reproduction
Hypothalamus
Functional unit of testis
Seminiferous tubule
Sperm maturation site
Epididymis
Spermiation
Release from seminiferous tubules / Sertoli cells
Capacitation site
Female reproductive tract / fallopian tube
Male hormone source
Leydig cells
Leydig cell stimulus
ICSH / LH
Sertoli cell stimulus
FSH
Blood-testis barrier
Sertoli cells
Semen main contribution
Seminal vesicle β†’ 60%
Forensic rape test
Fructose test
Vasectomy
Surgical ligation of vas deferens
Hydrocele
Serous fluid in tunica vaginalis
Cryptorchidism
Failure of testes descent
Orchidectomy
Removal of testis
Point
Parasympathetic β†’ erection
Shoot
Sympathetic β†’ ejaculation
Drug for impotency
Sildenafil citrate / Viagra
Oogenesis starts
Before birth
Spermatogenesis starts
Puberty
Spermatogenesis duration
β‰ˆ 74 days
1 primary spermatocyte gives
4 sperms
1 primary oocyte gives
1 ovum + 3 polar bodies
Mature ovarian follicle
Graafian follicle
Ovulation trigger
LH surge
Ovulated cell stage
Secondary oocyte at Metaphase II
After ovulation
Corpus luteum
Corpus luteum degeneration
Corpus albicans
Pregnancy hormone
Progesterone
UPT detects
HCG
Implantation stage
Blastocyst
Implantation day
Day 6–7
Common implantation site
Posterior fundus of uterus
Common fertilization site
Ampulla of fallopian tube
Common ectopic pregnancy site
Fallopian tube
Most common cervical cancer site
Transformation zone
Cervical cancer screening
Pap smear
Uterus type in human
Simplex
Uterus type in rabbit
Bicornuate
Vaginal normal flora
Lactobacillus acidophilus / Doderlein's bacillus
Vaginal pH
4–4.5
Milk formation hormone
Prolactin
Milk ejection hormone
Oxytocin
Breast gland type
Modified sweat gland / apocrine gland
Q1.
Cowper's gland is a:
πŸ“…MOE-2069
Q2.
Cowper's gland is present in:
πŸ“…IE 2012
Q3.
Which one of the followings is not a sex hormone:
πŸ“…MOE 2069
Q4.
Rete testis is a part of:
πŸ“…IOM 2010/MOE 2065
Q5.
Change in sperm for fertilization is:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2012
Q6.
Which of the followings doesn't involve in secretion?
πŸ“…MOE-2000
Q7.
Structure that provides nutrition to spermatozoa:
πŸ“…IOM 2002
Q8.
HCG is secreted by:
πŸ“…IE 2008
Q9.
Which male and female reproductive organs are homologous?
πŸ“…BP 2001
Q10.
In the testis of rabbit, the hormone secreting cells are:
πŸ“…MOE-2053
Q11.
Mammalian testis is covered by a fibrous connective tissue sheath called
πŸ“…IOM -1993
Q12.
Odd one out is
πŸ“…IOM 1993
Q13.
Corpus luteum is formed by:
πŸ“…IOM 2012
Q14.
A wife of newly married couple comes for advice to use contraceptive device. Which will you prefer
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2012
Q15.
Progesterone hormone is secreted by
πŸ“…MOE 2069β€’2066
Q16.
Graafian follicles are found in:
πŸ“…IOM 2010
Q17.
Hormone responsible for the attachment of embryo to the wall of uterus is known as:
πŸ“…MOE 2067/MOE 2065
Q18.
Fertilization of ovum in mammals take place in:
πŸ“…MOE 2067
Q19.
The uterine layer of human beings that is sloughed off during each menstruation is the
πŸ“…MOE 2066
Q20.
Ovulation in mammals is a process in which;
πŸ“…MOE 2066
Q21.
Name the hormone that has no role in menstruation
πŸ“…KU 2012
Q22.
How many sperms are produced from 24 secondary spermatocytes?
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2010
Q23.
Disintegration of corpus luteum occurs due to the of secretion of hormone:
πŸ“…IE 2011
Q24.
In human sperms, the cytoplasm around the mitochondria is called:
Q25.
The immediate cause of induction of ovulation in human female is large plasma surge of:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2008
Q26.
The estrous cycle is a characterstic of:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2008
Q27.
A single primary spermatocyte and a single primary oocyte will respectively produce:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2007
Q28.
The mammalian egg is:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2006
Q29.
After ovulation, graafian follicles change to:
πŸ“…IE 2008
Q30.
From birth to menopause the number of oogonia
πŸ“…IOM -1993
Q31.
Sperms move by:
πŸ“…BP 2004
Q32.
Menstruation in women is caused due to
πŸ“…IOM - 1998
Q33.
In calender method, the unsafe period is
πŸ“…IOM - 2001
Q34.
Sex is determined by:
πŸ“…IOM -1994
Q35.
Ovulation takes place at:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2016
Q36.
Fertilization in human takes place in:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2015
Q37.
Middle piece of sperm contains:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2015
Q38.
Acrosome of sperm is triggered by:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2014
Q39.
Lowest level of progesterone is during:
πŸ“…BPKIHS 2014
Q40.
Corpus albicans in menstrual cycle represents:
πŸ“…MOE 2014
Q41.
Follicular phase in human menstrual cycle is the stage of:
πŸ“…MOE 2014
Q42.
Movement of sperm is done by:
πŸ“…MOE 2014
Q43.
Cowper's gland is a
πŸ“…MOE 2012
Q44.
Progesterone hormone in female is produced by
πŸ“…MOE2012
Q45.
Progesterone which causes further thickening of endometrium for implantation is secreted by
πŸ“…IOM 2015
Q46.
In 28 days human ovarian cycle the ovulation takes place typically on;
πŸ“…IOM 2015
Q47.
Hormones secreted by placenta are:
πŸ“…KU-2014
Q48.
Which of the following forms male gamete
πŸ“…KU 2013
Q49.
Name the hormone that has no role in menstruation:
πŸ“…KU 2012
Q50.
Corpus luteum is formed in
πŸ“…KU-2011