The male and female reproductive systems function together to produce offspring. The female reproductive system nurtures a developing offspring. If a female breastfeeds, her breasts, considered accessory organs of both her reproductive and integumentary systems, are also used to nurture the newborn baby. The male and female reproductive systems also produce a number of important hormones before and during the reproductive years. Outline - The Male Reproductive System
- The Female Reproductive System
- Pregnancy
- The Birth Process
- Contraception
- Infertility
Learning Outcomes After completing Chapter 31, you will be able to: 31.1 List the organs of the male reproductive system and give the locations, structures, and functions of each.
31.2 Describe how sperm cells are formed.
31.3 Describe the substances found in semen.
31.4 Describe the processes of erection and ejaculation.
31.5 List the actions of testosterone.
31.6 Describe the causes, signs and symptoms, and treatment of various disorders of the male reproductive system.
31.7 List the organs of the female reproductive system and give the locations, structures, and functions of each.
31.8 Explain how ova develop.
31.9 List the actions of estrogen and progesterone.
31.10 Explain how and when ovulation occurs.
31.11 Describe what happens to an ovum after ovulation occurs.
31.12 List the purpose and events of the menstrual cycle.
31.13 Define menopause and explain what causes it.
31.14 Describe the causes, signs and symptoms, and treatment of various disorders of the female reproductive system.
31.15 Explain how and where fertilization occurs.
31.16 Describe the process of implantation.
31.17 Explain the difference between an embryo and a fetus.
31.18 Describe the changes that occur in a woman during pregnancy
31.19 List several birth control methods and explain why they are effective.
31.20 List the causes of and treatments for infertility.
31.21 Describe the causes, signs and symptoms, and treatments of the most common sexually transmitted diseases.
Summary
The ability to reproduce is one of the basic characteristics of life. The male and female reproductive systems work together to produce offspring. The male produces sperm and delivers them to the female. The female produces ova and, once fertilization occurs, her body nurtures the fetus until birth. The medical assistant must understand the anatomy and physiology of the reproductive systems in order to assist with exams and procedures such as colposcopy and vasectomy. Knowledge of the system is also important when teaching patients about breast and testicular self-examination and prevention and treatment of STDs.
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