Hormonal control of
Reproduction
Joshua Moloney-Griffiths
BTEC Applied Science Unit 9 Learning aim C
1/12/22
,Understand the role of hormones in the regulation and control of the reproductive
system
Introduction
In this report I will describe the structure and function of both male and female
reproductive anatomy, which will be followed by an explanation and evaluation on
how hormones act on the reproductive system, and ways to prevent or promote
conception through the study of embryology and andrology.
Reproductive system
Reproductive systems are essential for the natural process of reproduction and
usually consist of organs, tissues and glands which allow all respective animals and
organisms, specifically mammals, to reproduce and create offspring for the
continued existence of that species.
Both female and male reproductive systems are needed for:
- The development of sperm and ova (gametogenesis)
- The development and parturition of a human baby.
- The production of hormones.
- Fertilisation/conception.
[6, 17]
Uterus Fallopian
tubes
Fimbria Ovary
e Endometrium
Ovarian Myometriu
ligament m
Cervix
Perimetrium
Vagina
(Figure 1 Labelled structure of the female reproductive system.https://www.istockphoto.com/vector/female-reproductive-
system-vector-flat-illustration-gm467459878-60598796
1
, Understand the role of hormones in the regulation and control of the reproductive
system
Ovarian duct
Sacru
m
Fimbria
e
Ovar Endometrium
y
Wall of Rectu
uterus m
Cervi
Pubic
x
bone Vagin
Urethr a
a Clitori Labia
s minora Vulva
Labia
majora
Bladder
(Figure 2. The female reproductive system (posterior view). https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/779108/view/female-
reproductive-system-unlabelled )
Ovary – The ovaries are two, small, oval-shaped glands located on both sides of the
uterus. These produce eggs and release important hormones such as progesterone
and oestrogen. They oversee the releasing the egg cells during the menstruation
cycle (ovulation). [7, 8]
Fallopian tubes – Also known as the oviducts or uterine tubes, these are narrow
tubes connected to the uterus which transport the ova produced by the ovary to the
uterus each menstruation. Fertilisation from a sperm egg is most likely to occur here,
which then the fertilised egg is sent to the uterus for implantation. [7, 8, 15]
Uterus – Sometimes known as the womb, the uterus is an organ located just
between the bladder and rectum. Its purpose is to hold, nourish and protect a
developing foetus until birth. [7, 14]
Uterine horn – Located at the point of which the uterus and fallopian tubes meet and
assists sperm transportation, as well as development of the embryo, development
and attachment of the placenta, hormone production and childbirth. [7, 8]
Fimbriae – Fimbriae in the uterine tube are tiny, cilia structures which are found
lining the end of the fallopian tubes and are connected to the ovaries. Their main
function is to aid the transportation of the ovum (egg) from the ovaries to the uterus
as it cannot move by itself. This is done by the cilia pulsating which create sweeping
movements which also release a peritoneal fluid to guide the ovum to the uterus for
fertilisation, thus allowing conception. [1]
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