System Function: Reproduction - Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination Mblex
- What is the function of the fallopian (uterine) tubes?
- Transport ovum to uterus; usual site of fertilization. Fallopian tubes facilitate egg movement and provide the environment where sperm meets egg for conception.
- Which hormone is primarily responsible for development of male secondary sex characteristics?
- Testosterone. Testosterone drives the development of traits like increased muscle mass, body hair, and voice deepening during puberty in males.
- What is the function of the vas deferens (ductus deferens)?
- Transports sperm from epididymis to ejaculatory ducts. The vas deferens serves as a conduit for mature sperm, propelling them toward the urethra via muscular contractions.
- What is implantation?
- Attachment of the blastocyst to the uterine endometrium. Implantation embeds the early embryo into the nutrient-rich uterine lining, establishing pregnancy and placental formation.
- What is the function of the scrotum?
- Houses testes and regulates temperature for spermatogenesis. The scrotum maintains optimal cooler temperatures necessary for viable sperm production and protects the testes externally.
- What is the function of the urethra in the male reproductive system?
- Conducts semen to the exterior during ejaculation. In males, the urethra serves a dual role but specifically expels semen containing sperm during reproductive processes.
- What is the function of fimbriae at the end of the uterine tube?
- Sweep the ovum into the uterine tube after ovulation. Fimbriae create currents with cilia to guide the released egg into the tube, ensuring it reaches the site of potential fertilization.
- What is fertilization?
- Fusion of sperm and ovum to form a zygote. Fertilization restores the diploid chromosome number, initiating embryonic development in the reproductive process.
- What is the myometrium?
- Muscular layer of the uterus responsible for contractions. The myometrium's smooth muscle enables uterine contractions during menstruation, labor, and delivery for expulsion processes.
- What is ovulation?
- Release of a mature ovum from an ovarian follicle. Ovulation is a critical phase in the menstrual cycle triggered by hormonal surges, enabling potential conception.
- What are the labia majora and labia minora?
- External folds that protect the vestibule and genital structures. Labia majora and minora form protective barriers around the vaginal and urethral openings, shielding sensitive internal structures.
- What is the function of the prostate gland in male reproduction?
- Adds alkaline prostatic fluid to semen to support sperm. The prostate gland neutralizes vaginal acidity, protecting sperm and aiding their movement in the female reproductive tract.
- What is the function of the clitoris?
- Erectile organ for sexual arousal and sensory stimulation. The clitoris contains numerous nerve endings, enhancing sexual pleasure and contributing to female reproductive arousal.
- What is the primary function of the male testes in the reproductive system?
- Produce sperm and secrete testosterone. The testes are essential for male reproduction as they generate gametes through spermatogenesis and produce the hormone that maintains male characteristics.
- Identify the correct term for painful menstruation.
- Dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea refers to cramps caused by prostaglandin-induced uterine contractions during the menstrual cycle.
- What is the endometrium?
- Inner uterine lining that thickens and sheds with menses. The endometrium prepares for pregnancy by proliferating under hormonal influence and is shed if no implantation occurs.
- Identify the correct term for absence of menstruation.
- Amenorrhea. Amenorrhea indicates underlying issues like hormonal imbalances or stress, halting the normal menstrual cycle.
- What is the function of the seminal vesicles?
- Secrete fructose-rich fluid that nourishes sperm. Seminal vesicles contribute energy sources to semen, enhancing sperm viability and motility for successful fertilization.
- What is the function of the bulbourethral (Cowper) glands?
- Secrete lubricating, alkaline pre-ejaculate into urethra. Bulbourethral glands prepare the urethra for semen passage by neutralizing acidity and providing lubrication during arousal.