The reproductive system - Essay Example

The penis consists of three columns of erectile tissue wrapped in connective tissue covered with skin. The penis has a root, body (shaft), and glans penis. The corpus spongiosum expands at the distal end to form the glans penis. The urethra extends throughout the length of the corpus spongiosum and opens through the external urethral orifice at the tip of the glans penis. A loose fold of skin, called the prepuce, or foreskin, covers the penis (Young et al, 2000). The male sexual response includes erection and orgasm accompanied by ejaculation of semen.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates spermatogenesis; luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates the production of testosterone; and testosterone stimulates the development of male secondary sex characteristics and spermatogenesis (Young et al, 2000). A womans reproductive cycles last from menarche to menopause. The female reproductive organs include the ovaries, Fallopian tubes, uterus, vagina, accessory glands, and external genital organs. The organs of the female reproductive system create and maintain the female egg cells (ova).

It transports the ova to be fertilized by sperm, provides a location for the developing fetus and moves the fetus out at the end of the development period as well as producing female sex hormones (Young et al, 2000). Ovaries, the primary female reproductive organs, are solid structures about the size and shape of an almond located in shallow depressions, ovarian fossae, one on each side of the uterus, in the lateral walls of the pelvic cavity (Young et al, 2000). Two uterine tubes, Fallopian tubes, are connected with each ovary.

Once inside the Fallopian tube, the oocyte is moved along by the rhythmic beating of cilia on the epithelial lining and by peristaltic action of the smooth muscle in the wall of the tube. The passage through the Fallopian tube takes about seven days and because the oocyte is fertile for only 24 to 48