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The Sex organs (Gonads) are the testes in the male, and the ovaries in the female. Both of these organs produce and
secrete hormones that are balanced by the hypothalamus and pituitary glands.
The main hormones from the reproductive organs are:
- Testosterone is more prominent in males. It belongs to the family of androgens, which are steroid hormones
producing masculine effects. Testosterone stimulates the development and functioning of the primary sex organs. It
also stimulates the development and maintenance of secondary male characteristics, such as hair growth on the face
and the deep pitch of the voice.
- Estrogen. In females, this hormone stimulates the development of the uterus and vagina. It is also responsible for the
development and maintenance of secondary female characteristics, such as fat distribution throughout the body and
the width of the pelvis.
Male
The testes produce androgens (i.e., "testosterone"). Testosterone is classified as a steroid and is responsible for many of the physical
characteristics in males like.
- Broad shoulders
- Muscular body
- Hair
Testosterone increases protein production. Hormones that build up
protein are called anabolic steroids. Anabolic steroids are available
commercially and are being used by athletes because they help
improve their physical ability, however, they do have major side
effects such as:
- Liver and kidney disorders
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Decreased sperm count and impotency
- Aggressive behavior (roid mania)
- Acne
Female
The ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone.
Estrogen increases at the time of puberty and causes the
growth of the uterus and vagina. Without estrogen egg
maturation would not occur. Estrogen is also responsible
for secondary sex characteristics such as female body hair
and fat distribution. Estrogen and Progesterone are
responsible for the development of the breast and for the
uterine cycle. Progesterone is a female hormone secreted
by the corpus luteum after ovulation during the second
half of the menstrual cycle. It prepares the lining of the
uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg and allows for
complete shedding of the endometrium at the time of
menstruation. In the event of pregnancy, the progesterone
level remains stable beginning a week or so after
conception.
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