Reproductive
Functions:
The function of the Reproductive system is to continue human
existence. It is the process of creating a new baby by joining a female�s egg,
and a male�s sperm.
Major parts and organs:
The major parts and organs of the Male Reproductive system are the
sperm, the testes, the vas deferens, the prostate, the seminal vesicles, the
penis, and the urethra. Sperm is produced in the testes. From here, the
sperm travels through the vas deferens to the prostate and seminal
vesicles. Here, the fluid is added that provides the sperm with a nourishing
and balanced environment until in is time for the sperm to be ejaculated. At
the time of ejaculation, the spongy tissue of the penis fills with blood and the
penis becomes firm. The sperm then runs through the urethra, which runs
through the center of the penis.
The major parts and organs of the Female Reproductive system are the
ovum, the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus, the vagina, and the
cervix. The ovum, or egg, is produced in the ovaries, and is released only
one a month. The ovum travel down the fallopian tubes into the uterus,
where it waits for the sperm to arrive. In intercourse, the sperm are
deposited into the vagina, at the cervix. The sperm then make their way to
the ovum which may or may not be fertilized by only one sperm. If the ovum
is fertilized by the one sperm, then it implants in the lining of the uterus,
where the new human being begins to grow.
Interactions with other systems:
The Reproductive system interacts with the Circulatory system and
the Endocrine system. The Circulatory system provides the penis with
blood so it can become firm. In women, the hormones that are released by
the Endocrine system cause the monthly menstrual cycle to happen, and
produce female sexual characteristics. In men, the hormones released by the
Endocrine system produce male sexual characteristics.
Diseases:
Some diseases of the Reproductive System are Infertility,
Impotence, and Endometriosis. Infertility is the inability to conceive or
deliver a healthy child. There are many causes, ranging from hormonal or
structural abnormalities, to illness, to excessive use of alcohol or drugs, to
certain contraceptive techniques. Infertility can be in either partner. In males
caused by disorders of the sperm. In females caused by ovulatory and tubal
dysfunction, abnormal cervical mucus, or unexplained reasons. Treatment
for sperm disorders is clomiphene citrate(25 to 50 mg/day for 25 days/month
for 3 to 4 month). This sometimes improves sperm count in males with no
endocrine defects. Treatment of ovulatory dysfunction is by
ovulation-inducing drugs. Impotence is the inability to attain or sustain an
erection satisfactory for coitus. Erectile dysfunction can be primary (the man
has never been able to have an erection) or secondary ( the man has had an
erection but no longer can). The major cause of impotence is a disorder of
penile arteries or veins. One form of treatment is a drug called Viagra.
Endometriosis is a nonmalignant disorder in which functioning endometrial
tissue is present outside the uterine cavity. Symptoms are pelvic pain, pelvic
mass, alteration of menses, and infertility. Treatment must by on an
individual basis depending on the patient�s age, symptoms, desire for
pregnancy, and extent of disease. Options include medical suppression of
ovarian function to slow or stop the growth of endometrial implants,
conservative surgical resection of endometriotic tissue, and total abdominal
hysterectomy.