28 . T H E R E P R O D U C T I V E S Y S T E M S A N D HOMEOSTASIS

28 . T H E  R E P R O D U C T I V E  S Y S T E M S  A N D  
HOMEOSTASIS


 The male and female reproductive organs work together to produce offspring. 

In addition, 

• the female reproductive organs contribute to sustaining the growth of embryos and fetuses.

Sexual reproduction 

• is the process by which organisms produce offspring by making germ cells called gametes (GAM-e¯ts spouses). 

• After the male gamete (sperm cell) unites with the female gamete (secondary oocyte) by an event called fertilization—

• the resulting cell contains one set of chromosomes from each parent. 

• Males and females have anatomically distinct reproductive organs that are adapted for producing gametes, facilitating fertilization, and, 

• in females, sustaining the growth of the embryo and fetus.

• The male and female reproductive organs can be grouped

by function. 


The gonads

• testes in males 
• and ovaries in females

1. produce gametes and 
2. secrete sex hormones. 

• Various ducts then store and transport the gametes, and 
• accessory sex glands produce substances that protect the gametes and facilitate their movement. 

Finally, supporting structures, such as the penis in males and the uterus in females, assist the delivery of gametes, and the uterus is also the site for the growth of the embryo and fetus during pregnancy.




Gynecology (gı¯-ne-KOL-o¯ -je¯; gyneco- woman; -logy study of) 

• is the specialized branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the female reproductive

system. 

 urology (u¯ -ROL-o¯ -je¯) 

• is the study of the urinary system. 
• Urologists also diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the male reproductive system. 

Andrology (an-DROL-o¯ -je¯; andro- masculine). 

• The branch of medicine that deals with male disorders, especially infertility and sexual dysfunction