Section outline

  • This image compares male and female gonads using sagittal sections (male on left, female on right).















    Image: Human Reproductive System, Tsaitgaist and Sciencia58, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=140669671

    Welcome to the male and female reproductive system lab module. Here, you will recall content from your lecture materials to assist you in identifying structures (and their functions) of the male and female reproductive systems. You will compare homologous structures between the sexes and identify unique structures to each system. You will review histological samples of reproductive tissues and dissections of these structures in the fetal pig. The identification of structures and functions on 3-D models, in histological samples, and in fetal pigs will provide you with pertinent knowledge you can use in your future career.


    Introduction

    The male and female reproductive systems complement each other in the creation of a new human. The male reproductive system produces sperm (male gamete), which is required for the fertilization of the ovum (female gamete). Oocytes are produced by the female reproductive system. During intercourse, the male deposits semen into the female's vagina via the process of ejaculation. At this point, the sperm within the semen begin a journey toward the ovum which matured in the ovary and was subsequently released via ovulation. The ovum is collected by the fimbriae and moved into the fallopian tube, where it will ultimately be fertilized by a sperm cell that has traveled through the cervix, uterus, and fallopian tube to reach the ovum. Through fertilization, a zygote will be created and develop into a new human.


    Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

    1. Identify the internal and external structures associated with the male and female reproductive systems. (CO 3)
    2. Label primary structures of the male reproductive system. (CO 3)
    3. Explain the function of each male and female reproductive system structure. (CO 3)
    4. Recall the process of spermatogenesis. (CO 3)
    5. Describe the phases of the menstrual cycle and the processes of oogenesis and fertilization. (CO 3)
    6. Explain lactation and name the structures of the mammary glands. (CO 3)


    To achieve these objectives: 

    1. Read the Modules 12-13 Introduction in Human Anatomy and Physiology II Lecture Moodle course.
    2. Read and view the materials in Modules 12-13 Blood and Guts: An OER Approach to Human Anatomy and Physiology II Pressbooks book, linked in Modules 12 and 13 of the lecture course.
    3. Complete the pre-lab (8.1-8.5), lab (8.1-8.6), and post-lab activities (supplementary videos and lab quiz) included in this laboratory module.

    Overview of Lab Exercises:

    1. Gross Anatomy: Use models, diagrams, or images to identify the internal and external structures of the male and female reproductive systems.
    2. Histology: Using provided slides or micrographs (images), identify microscopic structures of the male and female reproductive systems.
    3. Dissection: Follow the provided protocol to observe the structures of the male and female reproductive systems in the fetal pig.

    Module Pressbooks Resources and Activities

    You will find the following resources and activities in this module at the Pressbooks website. Click on the links below to access or complete each item.

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