Reproductive System

Introduction

Reproduction - The continuity of life:

Reproduction is the process by which organisms can make their progenies and continuing their generations. It is the process needs for the evolution of an organisms, production of new species, etc.

There are three types of reproduction

• Asexual
• Sexual
• Vegetative reproduction.

What is reproductive system?

System (group of organs or organ system) which carries out the process of reproduction is considered as reproductive system.

Types of reproductive system:

There are two types of reproductive system

• Male
• Female.

Male reproductive system:

The male reproductive system consists of primary organs and accessory organs. The primary organs are testes and penis. The accessory organs are epididymis, seminal vesicle, prostate gland, urethra and vas deferens.

Testes - manufacturer of sperm:

Testes are the organ where the sperm is produced and the sperm is temporarily stored in epididymis and it is transported through vas deferens to reach the penis. When the sperm is transported through vas deferens, it gets mixed with the secretions of seminal vesicle and prostate gland. The sperm along with their secretions is considered as semen. When the semen reaches the penis, it enters into the common pathway called urethra. Urethra is the common pathway for both the semen and urine.

Female reproductive system:

Ovary is considered as the primary organ for female reproductive system, as well as it is the manufacturer of ovum. There is lot of accessory organs in female reproductive system. The accessory organs are vulva, vagina, uterus and fallopian tube.

Vulva - the mouth of the female reproductive system:

Vulva is considered as the entry or mouth of female reproductive system. This area consists of some important accessory organs. They are mons pubis, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, Bartholin's glands.

Vagina - the birth canal:

Vagina is also considered as birth canal. It is the passage of the ejaculated semen from penis during copulation. As well as through this passage, the baby from mother's uterus is delivered out, because of this it is considered as birth canal.

Uterus - Baby's room:

After the fertilization of sperm and ovum takes place in fallopian tube or anywhere it leads to the formation of zygote. Zygote settled down into the uterus where it occupies the place for growth and nourished by the mother.

Fallopian tube - passage of the ovum:

After the ova came out of the ovaries, it is transported through fallopian tubes to reach the uterus.