Human Reproductive System - Male and Female: Structure & Function

Edited By Irshad Anwar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 07:18 PM IST

The human reproductive system produces, nourishes, and helps in the transport of gametes (sperm in males and ova in females), which are necessary for reproduction. The primary sex organs are the testes and ovaries in males and females, respectively. They are responsible for gamete production and the secretion of hormones responsible for it. There are various accessory organs associated with the male and female reproductive systems as well.

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What is The Human Reproductive System?
Primary and Secondary Sex Organs
The Male Reproductive System
The Female Reproductive System
MCQs on The Human Reproductive System
Recommended video on The Human Reproductive System

Human Reproductive System - Male and Female: Structure & Function

The male reproductive system produces and delivers sperm in the female reproductive tract. The female reproductive system produces the egg and supports fertilisation, embryo implantation, and fetal development. There should be fine-tuning between the organs and hormones to facilitate successful reproduction. The human reproductive system is an important topic in the biology subject.

What is The Human Reproductive System?

The human reproductive system is a very complex and intricate system responsible for producing gametes, facilitating fertilisation, and developing offspring. It consists of primary and secondary sex organs and their accessory ducts or structures working together to ensure the continuation of the species. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of both the male and female reproductive systems explains how they function, and also important related issues such as fertility and sexual function.

Primary and Secondary Sex Organs

The primary sex organs, the gonads, are associated with the production of gametes and sex hormones. The male primary sex organs are the testes, and the female primary sex organs are the ovaries.

Primary Sex Organs

Testes: Testes produce sperm and testosterone, the male sex hormone. They are located outside the body, wrapped in a membrane sac called the scrotum, which maintains them at the right temperature for the best production of sperm.
Ovaries: The ovaries are the female gonads that produce eggs or ova and female sex hormones, the primary hormones being estrogen and progesterone. They are located within the pelvic cavity, one on either side of the uterus.

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Secondary Sex Organs

The secondary sex organs are responsible for the secondary sexual features and conduct the function associated with sexual intercourse.

Male Secondary Sex Organs: These are the penis, prostate gland, and seminal vesicles. Only the penis is described here as the external urinary eliminative organ and the organ of sexual intercourse, while the other two, the prostate gland and seminal vesicles are part of the seminal fluid formation process.

Female Secondary Sex Organs: These are the uterus, vagina and external genitalia. The fallopian tube and the uterus are the sites of fertilisation and implantation of the ovum and development of the fertilised egg. It also forms the birth canal and serves as the receptacle for the penis during sexual intercourse.

The Male Reproductive System

The male reproductive system includes a series of structures and organs which function in coordination to produce and deliver sperm.

Testes

Testes are contained within the scrotum and primarily have the role of spermatogenesis and production of the hormone testosterone. They include the seminiferous tubules, where the production of sperm takes place.

Epididymis

This is a coiled tube at the back of each testis responsible for storing and maturing sperm. It also connects the sperm from the testes to the vas deferens.

Vas Deferens:

This is a muscular tube that carries mature sperm from the epididymis to the urethra. Aside from this, it also carries along with it the seminal fluid coming from the seminal vesicles.

Seminal Vesicles

The seminal vesicles are sac-like glands which produce a fructose-rich nutrient fluid, a type of food for the sperm to gain motility.

Prostate Gland

The prostate gland secretes fluids that nourish and protect the sperm. The fluids form part of the semen.

Urethra

The urethra is a tube through which the urinary bladder discharges urine, and the reproductive system discharges semen to the outside of the body via the penis.

Penis

The penis is the male external reproductive organ that conveys the sperm into the female reproductive tract during intercourse. It has erectile tissue, allowing it to engorge with blood, and therefore be erected.

The Female Reproductive System

The anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive system are structured and organised to produce eggs and provide the site of fertilisation of the egg, which supports the development of the fetus.

Ovaries

The ovaries produce eggs and hormones. During a part of the menstrual cycle, an egg is released from one of the ovaries each month.

Fallopian Tubes

The fallopian tubes take the egg from the ovary into the uterus. Fertilisation usually occurs within the fallopian tube.

Uterus

The uterus is a muscular organ in which a fertilised egg implants and grows into a fetus. Its lining is called the endometrium, and it thickens up anticipating pregnancy.

Cervix

The cervix is located at the lower end of the uterus and it opens into the vagina. This part of the uterus acts as a one-way passage because, despite allowing sperm to pass into the uterus, it does not allow menstrual blood to come out of it.

Vagina

The vagina is a muscular tube connecting the cervix to the external genitalia. It acts as a birth canal, and it is also the receptacle for the penis during sexual intercourse.

External Genitalia

The female external genitalia, or vulva, include the clitoris, labiae, and opening of the vagina. While they trigger sexual arousal, they also protect the internal organs.

MCQs on The Human Reproductive System

Q1. Statement A: Temperature in the scrotum is 2-3 degrees Celsius lower than that of the abdominal temperature.

Statement B: A lower temperature is required for active sperm production and its survival.

Option 1: Both statements are correct and statement B is the correct explanation for statement A.

Option 2: Both statements are correct and statement B is not a correct explanation for statement A.

Option 3: Both statements are incorrect

Option 4: Statement B is correct and statement A is incorrect.

Correct answer: 1) both statements are correct and statement B is the correct explanation for statement A.

Explanation:

The scrotum maintains the temperature of the testes 2- 3 degrees Celsius below the body temperature.

When the temperature of the testes falls the scrotum shrinks bringing the scrotum close to the body to attain the desired temperature.

When the temperature rises the scrotum is relaxed and the testes come down at a distance from the body.

Hence, the correct option is 1) both statements are correct and statement B is the correct explanation for statement A.

Q2. Seminal plasma in humans is rich in:

Option 1: Fructose and calcium have no enzymes.

Option 2: Glucose and certain enzymes but have no calcium.

Option 3: Fructose and certain enzymes but poor in calcium.

Option 4: Fructose, calcium and certain enzymes.

Correct answer: 4) Fructose, calcium and certain enzymes.

Explanation:

Components of Seminal Plasma:

1. Water: This acts as the fundamental solvent, facilitating sperm transportation.

2. Fructose:
Source: Seminal vesicles.
Role: Supplies energy essential for sperm motility.

3. Prostaglandins:
Source: Seminal vesicles.
Role: Induces contractions in the female reproductive tract's smooth muscles, thus promoting sperm movement.

4. Proteins and Enzymes:
Examples: Fibrinogen, and fibrinolysin.
Role: Semen coagulation and subsequent liquefaction to free sperm.

5. Alkaline Compounds:
Source: Prostate gland.
Role: Counteracts the acidic female reproductive environment.

6. Zinc, Citric Acid, and Calcium:
Source: Prostate gland.
Role: Ensures sperm chromatin stability and overall sperm health.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4) Fructose, calcium and certain enzymes.

Q3. Gamete mother cells in females are known as?

Option 1: Spermatogonia

Option 2: Oogonium

Option 3: Both 1 and 2

Option 4: None of the above

Correct answer: 2) Oogonium

Explanation:

Gamete mother cells in females are termed oogonia. These cells, located in the ovaries, are crucial for the creation of female gametes, also known as egg cells or ova. They are diploid and undergo oogenesis.

Key Notes:

1. Definition: Oogonia are precursor cells in female ovaries, responsible for producing gametes via oogenesis.
2. Location: Found in ovaries during early development, especially fetal stages in mammals.
3. Development: Oogonia multiply through mitosis during fetal growth. Some transform into primary oocytes, initiating meiosis but halting at prophase I until puberty.
4. Function: Oogonia are vital for forming ova, which are later released during ovulation.

Hence, the correct answer is option 2) Oogonium.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which are the primary sex organs in males and females?

In the male, they are testes, and in the female, the ovaries.

2. What is the purpose of the prostate gland?

It produces a fluid that nourishes and protects the sperm; hence, the fluid forms part of semen.

3. Where does fertilization take place?

Normally in the fallopian tube when the sperm comes into contact with the egg.

4. What is the purpose of the cervix?

The cervix allows the entrance of sperm into the uterus while offering an exit path from the body for menstrual blood.

5. What is the reproductive role of the vagina?

It acts as a birth canal at childbirth and as the receptacle for the penis during intercourse.

6. What is the purpose of the cervix in the female reproductive system?

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It has several functions: it produces cervical mucus that helps or hinders sperm movement depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, it acts as a barrier to protect the uterus from infections, and it dilates during childbirth to allow the baby to pass through.

7. What is the significance of the blood-testis barrier?

The blood-testis barrier is a physical barrier formed by tight junctions between Sertoli cells in the testes. It separates the blood supply from the developing sperm cells, protecting them from the immune system (which might otherwise attack them as foreign bodies) and providing a specialized environment for sperm development.

8. How does the female body prepare for potential pregnancy each month?

During each menstrual cycle, the female body prepares for potential pregnancy through several processes: an egg matures and is released from the ovary, the uterine lining thickens with increased blood supply, and the cervix produces fertile cervical mucus. If fertilization doesn't occur, these changes reverse, resulting in menstruation.

9. What is the function of the corpus luteum?

The corpus luteum forms from the ruptured follicle after ovulation. It produces progesterone and some estrogen, which maintain the thickened uterine lining in preparation for potential implantation. If pregnancy occurs, the corpus luteum continues to produce hormones until the placenta takes over. If not, it degenerates, leading to menstruation.

10. How does the structure of the uterus support fetal development?

The uterus has a thick, muscular wall (myometrium) and an inner lining (endometrium) rich in blood vessels. This structure allows the uterus to expand as the fetus grows, provides a nutrient-rich environment for the developing placenta, and enables powerful contractions during labor. The endometrium also provides the initial site of implantation for the embryo.

11. How does the female menstrual cycle relate to reproduction?

The menstrual cycle prepares the female body for potential pregnancy each month. It involves the maturation and release of an egg (ovulation), as well as the preparation of the uterine lining (endometrium) for possible implantation. If fertilization doesn't occur, the endometrium is shed during menstruation, starting a new cycle.

12. What is the role of the fallopian tubes in female reproduction?

The fallopian tubes, also called oviducts, serve several crucial functions. They capture the egg released during ovulation, provide a site for fertilization, and transport the fertilized egg (zygote) to the uterus. The tubes' inner lining has cilia that help move the egg or zygote along.

13. How do the ovaries function as both endocrine and exocrine glands?

Ovaries function as endocrine glands by producing hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle and support pregnancy. They act as exocrine glands by releasing eggs (ova) into the fallopian tubes during ovulation.

14. What is the main difference between male and female reproductive systems?

The main difference lies in their primary functions. The male reproductive system produces sperm and delivers it to the female reproductive system, while the female reproductive system produces eggs, provides a place for fertilization, and nurtures the developing embryo/fetus.

15. Why do males produce millions of sperm daily, while females are born with all their eggs?

Males produce millions of sperm daily because sperm are short-lived and need to be constantly replenished. Females are born with all their eggs because eggs are much larger and more complex cells that take longer to develop. This difference in gamete production is called spermatogenesis in males and oogenesis in females.

16. What is the role of the hypothalamus in reproductive function?

The hypothalamus plays a crucial role in both male and female reproductive systems by producing Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH). This hormone stimulates the pituitary gland to release Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH), which in turn regulate the function of the testes in males and ovaries in females.

17. How do the male and female reproductive systems work together in fertilization?

During sexual intercourse, sperm from the male reproductive system are deposited in the female vagina. They then swim through the cervix and uterus to reach the fallopian tube, where they may encounter an egg if ovulation has occurred. If a sperm successfully penetrates the egg, fertilization occurs, forming a zygote that will develop into an embryo.

18. What is the role of kisspeptin in puberty and reproduction?

Kisspeptin is a neuropeptide that plays a crucial role in the onset of puberty and the regulation of reproduction. It stimulates the release of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, which in turn triggers the release of FSH and LH from the pituitary. Kisspeptin neurons are sensitive to various factors including body energy status, stress, and sex steroids, allowing them to integrate multiple signals that influence reproductive function.

19. What is the significance of the blood-brain barrier in hormone regulation?

The blood-brain barrier is a selective barrier that protects the brain from potentially harmful substances in the blood. In hormone regulation, it allows some hormones (like estrogen and testosterone) to pass through and affect brain function, while blocking others. This selective permeability is crucial for the feedback mechanisms that regulate hormone production in the reproductive system.

20. How does the structure of the testes contribute to sperm production?

The testes contain seminiferous tubules, which are coiled structures lined with specialized cells that produce sperm. This coiled structure maximizes the surface area for sperm production. The testes are also located outside the body in the scrotum, which helps maintain the lower temperature necessary for optimal sperm production.

21. What role does the epididymis play in male fertility?

The epididymis is a long, coiled tube attached to each testicle. It serves three main functions: storage of sperm, maturation of sperm, and transport of sperm. As sperm pass through the epididymis, they gain the ability to swim and fertilize an egg.

22. How do hormones regulate the male reproductive system?

The male reproductive system is regulated by hormones from the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and testes. The hypothalamus releases GnRH, which stimulates the pituitary to release FSH and LH. These hormones act on the testes to produce testosterone and stimulate sperm production. Testosterone, in turn, provides negative feedback to the hypothalamus and pituitary.

23. What is the function of the prostate gland?

The prostate gland produces a fluid that makes up about 30% of semen volume. This fluid contains nutrients and enzymes that help protect and activate sperm. The prostate also helps control urine flow and ejaculation by surrounding the urethra and contracting during ejaculation.

24. How does the structure of sperm contribute to its function?

A sperm cell has three main parts: the head, midpiece, and tail. The head contains the genetic material and enzymes to penetrate the egg. The midpiece is packed with mitochondria for energy production. The tail (flagellum) propels the sperm, allowing it to swim towards the egg.

25. What is the function of Sertoli cells in the testes?

Sertoli cells, also known as "nurse cells," play several crucial roles in sperm production: they provide structural support and nutrition to developing sperm cells, form the blood-testis barrier, regulate the process of spermatogenesis, and produce hormones and proteins necessary for sperm development.

26. How do the ovaries determine which follicle will release an egg each cycle?

At the start of each menstrual cycle, several follicles begin to develop under the influence of FSH. Usually, one follicle becomes dominant, growing larger and producing more estrogen. This increased estrogen triggers a surge of LH, which causes the dominant follicle to rupture and release its egg (ovulation). The other follicles typically degenerate.

27. What is the purpose of the seminal vesicles?

Seminal vesicles are glands that produce a significant portion of the seminal fluid. Their secretions make up about 60% of semen volume and contain fructose (a sugar that provides energy for sperm), proteins, and other substances that support sperm function and survival.

28. How does the female body regulate the timing of ovulation?

Ovulation timing is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones. As estrogen levels rise due to follicle growth, they trigger a surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. This LH surge causes the mature follicle to rupture and release the egg, typically about 14 days before the start of the next menstrual period.

29. What is the role of the zona pellucida in fertilization?

The zona pellucida is a glycoprotein layer surrounding the egg. It plays crucial roles in fertilization: it contains receptors that allow species-specific sperm binding, it triggers the acrosome reaction in sperm (releasing enzymes that help penetrate the egg), and it prevents polyspermy (fertilization by multiple sperm) by hardening after one sperm enters.

30. How do contraceptive pills work to prevent pregnancy?

Most contraceptive pills contain synthetic versions of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones work to prevent pregnancy in several ways: they suppress ovulation by inhibiting the release of FSH and LH, thicken cervical mucus to hinder sperm movement, and thin the uterine lining to make implantation less likely if fertilization does occur.

31. What is the function of the fimbriae on the fallopian tubes?

Fimbriae are finger-like projections at the end of each fallopian tube near the ovary. Their primary function is to capture the released egg during ovulation. The fimbriae move in a sweeping motion, creating currents that help guide the egg into the fallopian tube where fertilization can occur.

32. How does the structure of the vagina contribute to its functions?

The vagina is a muscular, elastic tube lined with mucous membranes. This structure allows it to expand during sexual intercourse and childbirth. The rugae (folds) in its walls provide elasticity and increase surface area. The vagina's acidic environment and beneficial bacteria help protect against infections. It also serves as the birth canal and allows for menstrual flow.

33. How do Leydig cells contribute to male reproductive function?

Leydig cells, located in the interstitial tissue of the testes, are responsible for producing testosterone in response to Luteinizing Hormone (LH). Testosterone is crucial for male reproductive function as it stimulates sperm production, promotes the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, and influences sexual behavior.

34. What is the role of inhibin in the reproductive system?

Inhibin is a hormone produced by Sertoli cells in males and granulosa cells in females. Its main function is to provide negative feedback to the pituitary gland, inhibiting the secretion of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). This helps regulate the rate of gamete production in both sexes and plays a role in the female menstrual cycle.

35. How does the placenta take over hormone production during pregnancy?

As pregnancy progresses, the placenta gradually takes over the production of hormones necessary to maintain the pregnancy. It produces human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which maintains the corpus luteum early in pregnancy. Later, the placenta produces estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones that support fetal development and prepare the mother's body for childbirth and lactation.

36. What is the function of the bulbourethral glands?

The bulbourethral glands, also known as Cowper's glands, are part of the male reproductive system. They produce a clear, mucus-like fluid that is released into the urethra during sexual arousal, before ejaculation. This fluid helps neutralize any acidity in the urethra from urine residue, creating a more favorable environment for sperm. It also acts as a lubricant during sexual intercourse.

37. How does the female body maintain the menstrual cycle length?

The length of the menstrual cycle is primarily maintained by the interplay of hormones and the development of ovarian follicles. The first half of the cycle (follicular phase) can vary in length, but the second half (luteal phase) is consistently about 14 days. This is because the lifespan of the corpus luteum, which forms after ovulation, is relatively fixed. The consistency of the luteal phase helps maintain overall cycle length.

38. How does the structure of the mammary glands change during pregnancy and lactation?

During pregnancy, hormones stimulate the growth and development of the mammary glands. The number of milk-producing alveoli increases, and the ducts that carry milk expand. After birth, the hormone prolactin stimulates milk production, while oxytocin causes the alveoli to contract and release milk. These structural changes enable the breasts to produce and deliver milk for infant nutrition.

39. What is the function of the corona radiata in the female reproductive system?

The corona radiata is a layer of granulosa cells that surrounds the oocyte (egg cell) as it's released from the ovary. These cells play several important roles: they provide nutrients to the developing oocyte, help guide sperm to the egg during fertilization, and contribute to the formation of the zona pellucida. The corona radiata also plays a role in preventing polyspermy by releasing compounds that make it harder for additional sperm to penetrate after fertilization.

40. How does the pH of the vagina contribute to reproductive health?

The vagina typically maintains an acidic pH (around 3.8 to 4.5) due to the presence of lactic acid-producing bacteria. This acidic environment helps protect against harmful bacteria and fungi, maintaining vaginal health. However, the pH becomes more alkaline during ovulation and during sexual arousal, which creates a more favorable environment for sperm survival and movement.

41. What is the role of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in reproductive development and function?

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) plays different roles in male and female development. In males, it's produced by Sertoli cells during fetal development and causes the regression of the Müllerian ducts, which would otherwise develop into female reproductive structures. In females, AMH is produced by granulosa cells in the ovaries and serves as a marker of ovarian reserve, reflecting the number of remaining follicles.

42. How do the testes maintain a temperature lower than core body temperature?

The testes are maintained at a temperature about 2-4°C lower than core body temperature, which is optimal for sperm production. This is achieved through several mechanisms: the scrotum's position outside the body cavity, the cremasteric reflex which raises or lowers the testes in response to temperature changes, the pampiniform plexus (a network of veins that cools arterial blood entering the testes), and sweat glands in the scrotum that provide evaporative cooling.

43. What is the function of the cumulus oophorus in ovulation and fertilization?

The cumulus oophorus is a cluster of granulosa cells that surrounds the oocyte within the ovarian follicle. During ovulation, this cluster is released along with the oocyte. It plays several important roles in fertilization: it helps guide sperm to the egg, contains enzymes that help sperm penetrate to reach the egg, and may play a role in selecting the most viable sperm for fertilization.

44. How does the endometrium change throughout the menstrual cycle?

The endometrium undergoes cyclic changes in response to hormones. During the follicular phase, rising estrogen levels cause the endometrium to thicken and develop glands and blood vessels. After ovulation, progesterone causes further thickening and the glands become secretory, preparing for potential implantation. If pregnancy doesn't occur, the drop in hormones causes the upper layers of the endometrium to break down and shed during menstruation.

45. What is the role of prostaglandins in the reproductive system?

Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that play various roles in reproduction. In females, they are involved in ovulation, facilitate the transport of sperm in the female reproductive tract, and stimulate uterine contractions during menstruation and childbirth. In males, prostaglandins are present in semen and may help in sperm motility and the immune response in the female reproductive tract.

46. How do Sertoli cells regulate the blood-testis barrier?

Sertoli cells form tight junctions with each other,