Human Reproductive System

Humans reproduce with a particular organ system. Both male and female organ systems get involved in this biological process. The reproductive system in males is responsible for the production and deposition of sperm. The reproductive system in females is responsible for the production of egg cells. The female reproductive system shields and nutrify the foetus till birth.

The process of reproduction generally comprises internal fertilisation by mating. The male introduces his penis inside the vagina (female reproductive organ), and ejaculation of semen takes place. The semen consists of sperm whose tiny proportion passes into the uterus. From the uterus, it passes to the fallopian tube, and ovum fertilisation occurs. If the fertilisation is achieved, the ovum goes to the uterus, and the fetus development process starts.

Female reproductive system

It includes both internal sex organs and external sex organs for the purpose of reproduction. At birth, the female reproductive system is not fully developed. It gradually develops with puberty. Vagina, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovum are the internal sex organs. The vagina is a canal fibromuscular in nature. Its function is to make sexual intercourse possible. Also, the birth takes place from the vaginal opening. The vagina leads to the uterus cervix. The cervix (the lower narrow part of the uterus) is where the uterus gets connected with the vagina. It is cylindrical. The uterus (womb) is an important part of the female reproductive system. It provides mechanical shielding and nutrition and removes waste for the embryo and later the foetus. At the time of baby delivery, the muscular wall contraction of the uterus plays a major role in pushing the foetus out. It is a pear-shaped organ whose major responsibility is to receive a fertilised ovum. The fallopian tubes start from the ovaries and lead into the uterus. When the ovum gets matured, the wall of the ovary and the follicle trip, and allows the ovum to enter the tube. The ovaries are paired organs situated near pelvic cavity lateral walls. Their function is to produce egg cells and secretes hormones. The process of egg cell release is known as ovulation. The fallopian tube then gains the egg cell and travels down to the uterus. It may or may not get fertilised by a sperm during its journey.

Male reproductive system

It includes multiple sex organs for the purpose of reproduction. They are located inside the pelvis and outside of the male body. The penis and scrotum are on the outer side. Testis, epididymis, vas deferens and accessory glands are located internally. The penis has a long shaft-like structure and a bulbous-shaped tip protected by the skin. During the erection of the penis due to sexual arousal, the penis arteries are dilated, and the veins get compressed. As a result, blood flows under pressure. The scrotum is located behind the penis and consists of many nerves and vessels. It holds and shields the testicles. It is always connected to the pelvic cavity. The testis produces sperm in the seminiferous tubules and synthesises androgens. It also secretes androgens which are responsible for regulating reproductive functions. The epididymis has a spiral tube structure and carries the sperm that are already produced. Vas deferens (sperm duct) is an approximately 30 cm long thin tube that reaches the pelvic cavity

from the epididymis. The accessory glands supply fluids for the purpose of lubrication of the duct system and nourishment of the sperm cells.

Conclusion

The human reproductive system ensures human survival. The reproduction process involves the development of the fetus for around nine months. After a particular point when the fetus is generally well developed, childbirth takes place. Infants require parental care. Food is provided to the infants by breastfeeding normally. Until puberty, there is a constant growth in reproductive organs. After an individual reaches puberty, there is an increase in activity in the sex glands.

The development of secondary sexual characteristics starts, and the individual becomes capable of reproduction.