This document contains information for the IEB Life Sciences Grade 12 curriculum. It has notes on human reproduction including human reproductive anatomy, the menstrual cycle, hormones of the menstrual cycle, contraception, infertility and STIs.
- 2°C to 3°C lower than body temperature for optimal sperm production
- Oval shaped, enclosed in scrotum
Divided into compartments called lobules
- Contain seminiferous tubules
o Lined with germinal epithelium
o Epithelium divides into sperm cells
Inside the seminiferous tubules
- The germinal epithelium turns into sperm
o This is done by meiosis
- Some turn into long columnar cells (Sertoli Cells)
o These provide food for the developing sperm
The tubules are surrounded by connective tissue
- This tissue contains the cells of Leydig
o They produce testosterone
Function of testes
They produce and release sperm
They produce testosterone
- It is responsible for secondary sexual characteristics
Puberty
- Sex organs develop (penis and testes grow)
- Luteinizing hormone stimulates the cells of Leydig to produce testosterone
- Follicle-stimulating hormone stimulates the production of sperm
, Human Reproduction
Parts of the male reproductive system
Epididymis
- Seminiferous tubules join to form the epididymis
o Long convoluted tubule lined with mucous
o Found at the back of the testes
- Stores sperm until it is mature enough to fertilise an egg
- Mucous in the epididymis and peristalsis facilitate movement
Vas Deferens (sperm duct)
- Continuation of the epididymis through the abdomen to the urethra
- Forms a swelling before joining the urethra (ampulla)
- Transports sperm from the epididymis to the urethra
Ejaculatory duct
- Muscular tubule which contracts to force semen out
of the body (ejaculation)
Urethra
- The 2 ejaculatory ducts join the urethra
- The urethra transports sperm and urine out the body (never simultaneously)
Seminal Vesicle
- Sac-like structures lined with mucous connected to the ampulla
- Mucous membrane provides fructose as food for the sperm
Prostate Gland
- Conical gland surrounding the urethra close to the ejaculatory duct and bladder
- Secretes alkaline liquid which ensures sperm mobility and neutralises vagina pH
Cowpers Gland
- Two small glands on either side of the urethra, just below the prostate gland
- Ensures sperm mobility by clearing the urethra of urine and lubricating the sperm head
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