Key Terms of the Reproductive System for Anatomy & Physiology Lab Exam

Reproductive System: Essential Terms and Structures

Introduction

The reproductive system is responsible for producing, storing, and transporting gametes, as well as supporting the development of offspring. Understanding the terminology associated with both male and female reproductive anatomy is crucial for success in Anatomy & Physiology courses and lab exams.

Male Reproductive System

• Testes: The primary male gonads; produce sperm and testosterone.

• Epididymis: Coiled tube where sperm mature and are stored.

• Vas deferens (Ductus deferens): Transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct.

• Ejaculatory duct: Passageway for sperm and seminal fluid into the urethra.

• Corpus cavernosum & Corpus spongiosum: Erectile tissues of the penis; fill with blood during erection.

• Glans penis: Sensitive bulbous structure at the distal end of the penis.

• Prepuce: Foreskin covering the glans penis.

• Scrotum: Sac that holds and protects the testes; regulates temperature for optimal sperm production.

• Spermatic cord: Contains vas deferens, blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatics serving the testes.

• Seminal vesicle: Gland that secretes fluid rich in fructose to nourish sperm.

• Prostate gland: Adds alkaline fluid to semen to enhance sperm motility.

• Bulbourethral gland: Secretes mucus for lubrication during intercourse.

• Seminiferous tubule: Site of sperm production within the testes.

• Spermatid: Immature sperm cell formed during spermatogenesis.

• Sustentacular cell (Sertoli cell): Supports and nourishes developing sperm cells.

Female Reproductive System

• Ovary: Female gonad; produces eggs (ova) and hormones (estrogen, progesterone).

• Uterus: Muscular organ where embryo implants and develops.

• Cervix: Lower, narrow part of the uterus opening into the vagina.

• Vagina: Muscular canal leading from the cervix to the outside of the body; receives penis during intercourse.

• Fornix: Recessed area around the cervix within the vagina.

• Rectouterine pouch: Space between the rectum and uterus (also called pouch of Douglas).

• Vesicouterine pouch: Space between the bladder and uterus.

• Urogenital diaphragm: Muscular layer supporting pelvic organs.

• Endometrium: Inner lining of the uterus; site of implantation and menstruation.

• Myometrium: Thick muscular layer of the uterus responsible for contractions.

• Uterine tube (Fallopian tube): Transports ova from the ovary to the uterus; site of fertilization.

• Infundibulum: Funnel-shaped opening of the uterine tube near the ovary.

• Fimbriae: Finger-like projections at the end of the infundibulum that help capture the ovum.

• Labia majora & Labia minora: External folds of skin protecting the vaginal and urethral openings.

• Vestibular gland: Secretes lubricating fluid into the vaginal vestibule.

Ovarian and Follicular Structures

• Primary follicle: Early stage of ovarian follicle development containing a primary oocyte.

• Secondary follicle: More mature follicle with a fluid-filled cavity.

• Vesicular (antral) follicle: Fully mature follicle ready to release an oocyte during ovulation.

• Corpus albicans: Degenerated corpus luteum; nonfunctional scar tissue.

• Corpus luteum: Temporary endocrine structure formed after ovulation; secretes progesterone.

• Oocyte: Female gamete (egg cell).

• Secondary oocyte: Oocyte released during ovulation; can be fertilized by sperm.

• Zona pellucida: Glycoprotein layer surrounding the oocyte; important for sperm binding.

• Corona radiata: Layer of follicular cells surrounding the zona pellucida and oocyte.

Ligaments and Supporting Structures

• Suspensory ligament: Attaches the ovary to the pelvic wall; contains blood vessels and nerves.

• Broad ligament: Wide fold of peritoneum supporting the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.

• Round ligament: Connects the uterus to the labia majora; helps maintain uterine position.

Summary Table: Major Structures of the Reproductive System

Structure	Location	Function
Testes	Scrotum	Sperm and testosterone production
Ovary	Pelvic cavity	Ova and hormone production
Uterus	Pelvic cavity	Supports embryo/fetus
Vas deferens	From epididymis to urethra	Transports sperm
Uterine tube	Between ovary and uterus	Transports ova; site of fertilization
Prostate gland	Below bladder	Secretes alkaline fluid
Labia majora/minora	External genitalia	Protection
Corpus luteum	Ovary	Secretes progesterone

Additional info:

• Many of these terms are anatomical landmarks or structures that are commonly identified in lab practical exams.

• Understanding the function and location of each structure is essential for both written and practical assessments in Anatomy & Physiology.