ANAT 100 oiw
W23
ANATOMY OF THE HUMAN BODY
MODULE 12
THE REPRODUCTION SYSTEM:
BECOMING A PRO IN THE ANATOMY
OF THE HUMAN REPRODUCTION
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MODULE 12 COMPANION GUIDE
ANAT 100: W23
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................................................................... 4
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
Learning Outcomes........................................................................................................................................... 4
Virtual Cadaver Lab: Reproductive System .................................................................................................... 4
Course Icons ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
Video: Overview of the Reproductive System ................................................................................................ 5
Question: The Reproductive System ............................................................................................................... 5
Module Outline .................................................................................................................................................. 5
SECTION 01: Male Reproductive System ............................................................................................................ 6
Male Reproductive System............................................................................................................................... 6
Testes .................................................................................................................................................................. 6
Covering of the Testes ...................................................................................................................................... 7
Seminiferous Tubules ....................................................................................................................................... 7
Sperm ................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Scrotum .............................................................................................................................................................. 9
Muscles of the Scrotum .................................................................................................................................... 9
Male Duct System............................................................................................................................................10
Epididymis ....................................................................................................................................................11
Vas Deferens (Ductus Deferens) ...............................................................................................................12
Histology of the Vas Deferens (Ductus Deferens) ...................................................................................12
Structures Associated with the Vas Deferens ..........................................................................................13
Activity: Urethra...........................................................................................................................................14
Accessory Glands ............................................................................................................................................14
Seminal Vesicles ..........................................................................................................................................15
Prostate Gland .............................................................................................................................................16
Bulbourethral Glands .................................................................................................................................16
Question: Function of Accessory Glands ......................................................................................................17
Review: The Pathway of Sperm .....................................................................................................................17
Penis .................................................................................................................................................................18
Penile Tissue ....................................................................................................................................................19
Activity: Parts of the Male Reproductive System .........................................................................................19
Question: Clinical Application - Vasectomy ..................................................................................................20
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SECTION 02: Female Reproductive System ......................................................................................................21
Female Reproductive System ........................................................................................................................21
The Ovaries ......................................................................................................................................................21
Ligaments of the Ovaries ...............................................................................................................................22
Internal Anatomy of the Ovaries ...................................................................................................................22
Cortex of the Ovaries ......................................................................................................................................23
Primordial Follicle........................................................................................................................................24
Primary Follicle ............................................................................................................................................24
Secondary Follicle .......................................................................................................................................25
Corpus Luteum ............................................................................................................................................25
Graafian Follicle ...........................................................................................................................................26
Medulla of the Ovaries ...................................................................................................................................26
Uterine Tubes ..................................................................................................................................................27
Uterus ...............................................................................................................................................................27
Quiz: The Fundus.............................................................................................................................................28
Histology of Uterine Wall ................................................................................................................................28
Broad Ligament of the Uterus .......................................................................................................................29
Vagina ...............................................................................................................................................................29
Histology of the Vagina ...................................................................................................................................30
Quiz: Connect Your Knowledge .....................................................................................................................30
Female External Genitalia ..............................................................................................................................31
Mammary Glands ............................................................................................................................................32
Activity: Parts of the FEMale Reproductive System .....................................................................................32
Video: Ectopic Pregnancy ...............................................................................................................................33
Question: Ectopic Pregnancy .........................................................................................................................33
CONCLUSION .......................................................................................................................................................35
Module 12 Summary ......................................................................................................................................35
Module Complete! ...........................................................................................................................................35
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MODULE 12 COMPANION GUIDE
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INTRODUCTION
Please see the online learning module for the full experience of interactions within this document.
INTRODUCTION
This content was retrieved from Introduction Slide 1 of 7 of the online learning module.
Module 12 investigates both the male and female reproductive systems, which are essential for
evolution and the continuation of the human species. The gross anatomy and histological properties of
both systems are highlighted throughout the module, with an emphasis on the unique features of each
system.
You will apply the concepts you learn in Module 12 to the reproductive system virtual cadaver lab and
the final block theory examination.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
This content was retrieved from Introduction Slide 2 of 7 of the online learning module.
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
•
•
•
Identify the organs of the male and female reproductive systems
Explain the functions of, and relationships between, these organs
Recognize the microscopic features of the testes, epididymis, accessory glands, penis, ovaries,
uterine tubes, and uterus
VIRTUAL CADAVER LAB: REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
This content was retrieved from Introduction Slide 3 of 7 of the online learning module.
These are the guiding questions for the reproductive system lab. Please keep them in mind as
you complete the module.
1.
2.
3.
Compare and contrast the histology of the testes and the ovaries.
Review the pathway of sperm through the male reproductive system. Identify the structure in
which sperm are produced and stored, and the glands that add additional substances to sperm
before ejaculation.
Review the pathway of an ovum (egg) through the female reproductive system. What structure
does a fertilized egg attach? What happens if an egg is not fertilized?
ACTIVITIES THROUGHOUT THE MODULE
Note that text responses and interactions will not be graded; however, they are recorded in the
module and can be viewed by your instructor.
COURSE ICONS
This content was retrieved from Introduction Slide 4 of 7 of the online learning module.
Throughout this course, there is a specific click to reveal icon for you to use.
Learn how it is used in this course.
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References
This button will reveal the sources of any figures on the page.
Interesting Facts
These are unique facts that are included to help you remember the content; however, this content will
not be tested.
Course Toolbox
This icon lives in the sidebar of your module. Clicking it will open the Tools available to you, such as
writing notes within the module or magnifying your screen. For more information about using the
Course Toolbox Tool, visit the Module FAQ.
VIDEO: OVE RVIEW OF THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
This content was retrieved from Introduction Slide 5 of 7 of the online learning module.
The reproductive systems are complex systems of the body. While watching the video, try to identify
one similarity and one difference between the male and female reproductive systems.
Watch the video for a brief overview of the features of both the male and female reproductive
systems.
Watch this video: The Reproductive System
Page Link:
https://player.vimeo.com/video/290290492
QUESTION: THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
This content was retrieved from Introduction Slide 6 of 7 of the online learning module.
Based on the video you just watched, answer the question.
State the similarities and differences between the male and female reproductive systems, and
propose why these systems have similar components.
Feedback:
The main similarity between the reproductive systems is that they have paired gonads (two testes or two
ovaries), which function to produce the gamete cells. Similarities exist because the male and female systems
arise from the same embryological origin. However, the two systems are different in many respects, including
the structure of gametes, hormonal production and influences, and external genitalia.
MODULE OUTLINE
This content was retrieved from Introduction Slide 7 of 7 of the online learning module.
SECTION 01: MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
SECTION 02: FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
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SECTION 01: MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 1 of 15 of the online learning module.
The male reproductive system involves a variety of structures working in synchrony to create and
transport the male gamete cell*, sperm. Sperm are produced in the testes and transported through a
duct system to reach the external world.
This section will cover the components of the male reproductive system including the:
•
•
•
•
•
Testes
Scrotum
Male duct system
Accessory glands
Penis
The male reproductive system.
Definition:*
Gamete cell: An organism’s reproductive cell.
TESTES
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 2 of 15 of the online learning module.
The testes are the site of sperm creation and development in the male reproductive system.
They are two oval-shaped organs that measure 4-5 c m in length and 2.5-3 c m in diameter.
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COVERING OF THE TESTES
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 3 of 15 of the online learning module.
The testes are covered and protected by two tissues.
Learn about each of these coverings.
1.
2.
Tunica Vaginalis
Tunica vaginalis is the outer protective covering.
Tunica Albuginea
Tunica albuginea is the inner fibrous coat or capsule. Extensions from the tunica albuginea
penetrate into the testis, dividing it into approximately 250-300 compartments known as lobules.
Each lobule contains up to four thin and elongated seminiferous tubules.
SEMINIFEROUS TUBULES
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 4 of 15 of the online learning module.
Within the testes are tightly coiled seminiferous tubules. These tubules are the sperm producing
factories. Each testis contains about 600-1000 seminiferous tubules in its lobules, with each tubule
approximately 80 c m in length when uncoiled.
In the loose connective tissue between these tubules, Leydig cells are found, which produce and
secrete testosterone.
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Switch between a diagram and a histological image.
Interesting Fact
If spread out in a straight line, the total length of the seminiferous tubules in both testes is
approximately equal to 0.5 miles!
SPERM
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 5 of 15 of the online learning module.
Sperm are gametes of the male reproductive system, and carry the paternal genetic information.
Sperm can be organized into four regions.
Learn about each region.
1. Head
The head is flat and has an oval shape. It contains the nucleus, which contributes either an X or Y
chromosome to the fertilization process. The head also contains the acrosomal cap, which contains
enzymes that are released prior to fertilization to help the sperm penetrate the layers of the egg.
2. Neck
The neck connects the head to the midpiece.
3. Midpiece
The midpiece is a continuation of the neck with a mitochondrial collar that helps produce energy.
4. Tail
The tail, or flagellum, is the source of movement for the sperm.
Interesting Fact
The average volume of ejaculate is 2-5 m l with approximately 15-200 million sperm per ml.
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Reference:
Wikimedia Commons. (28 May 2007). Sperm swe pic 280507.png. Retrieved July 26, 2018, from
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sperm_swe_pic_280507.png
SCROTUM
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 6 of 15 of the online learning module.
The scrotum is the sac of skin and fascia surrounding the testes. It is derived from the anterior
abdominal wall and resides outside of the abdominopelvic cavity.
Switch between a diagram and a cadaveric image.
MUSCLES OF THE SCROTUM
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 7 of 15 of the online learning module.
There are two muscles in the scrotum. These muscles function to control the temperature of the
testes.
Learn about the muscles of the scrotum.
Dartos Muscle
This muscle is located superficially in the skin of the scrotum. It is responsible for the rugose (wrinkly)
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appearance of the scrotal sac, and helps to regulate temperature by altering the exposed surface area
of the scrotum.
Cremaster Muscle
The cremaster muscle is a covering of the testis found deep to the scrotal wall. It reflexively contracts
in a cold environment, drawing the testes superiorly in the scrotum, closer to the body wall where they
can absorb body heat.
MALE DUCT SYSTEM
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 8 of 15 of the online learning module.
Following production in the testes, the sperm must travel through the duct system to pass out of the
body. The right and left testes each have their own duct systems.
Use the buttons to highlight each structure of the male duct system and learn about each structure of the
male duct system.
Epididymis - Refer to Pages 11-12
Vas Deferens - Refer to Pages 12-14
Urethra - Refer to Page 14
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EPIDIDYMIS
Subpage of Section 1 Slide 8 of 15 Epididymis 1/1
The first portion of the male duct system is the epididymis. It lies on the superior and posterior border
of each testis and is shaped like a comma.
The epididymis measures about 4 c m in length, but contains long coiled tubules (4-5 meters total
length).
Learn about the regions and the histology of the epididymis.
Regions
Learn about each component of the epididymis.
Head
The head contains and receives sperm from the seminiferous tubules.
Body
The body lies on the posterior-lateral border of the testis and contains the highly coiled duct of the
epididymis.
Tail
The tail is located near the inferior border of the testis. In the tail, the coiling of the duct has diminished
and the tube reverses its direction and ascends into the vas deferens. The tail is where sperm are
stored prior to ejaculation.
Histology
The ducts of the epididymis are lined with pseudostratified columnar epithelium.
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Reference:
Thieme teaching assistant.
VAS DEFERENS (DUCTUS DEFERENS)
Subpage of Section 1 Slide 8 of 15 Vas Deferens 1/3
The vas deferens is the next portion of the male duct system. It stores and transports sperm from the
epididymis to the urethra.
HISTOLOGY OF THE VAS DEFERENS (DUCTUS DEFERENS)
Subpage of Section 1 Slide 8 of 15 Vas Deferens 2/3
The vas deferens is lined with pseudostratified columnar epithelium containing stereocilia.
The vas deferens has a small lumen, but a thick muscularis composed of layers of smooth muscle. The
thick muscular layer helps propel sperm through the vas deferens.
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Use the box on the image to see a close up of the epithelium of the vas deferens.
References:
Wikimedia commons. (n.d.). Stereocilia of frog inner ear.01.jpg. Retrieved July 27, 2018, from
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Stereocilia_of_frog_inner_ear.01.jpg
STRUCTURES ASSOCIATED WITH THE VAS DEFERENS
Subpage of Section 1 Slide 8 of 15 Vas Deferens 3/3
There are a number of associated structures that sperm travel through as it passes from the vas
deferens to the urethra.
Learn about each part of the male duct system.
Ampulla of Vas Deferens
The ampulla of vas deferens is the expanded distal portion of the vas deferens.
Ejaculatory Duct
The ampulla of the vas deferens and the duct of the seminal vesicle join to form the ejaculatory duct.
The seminal vesicles are accessory glands of the male reproductive system that secretes nutritive fluid
for the sperm. These and other accessory glands will be further discussed later in the module.
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ACTIVITY: URETHRA
Subpage of Section 1 Slide 8 of 15 Urethra 1/1
In Module 11, you learned about the male urethra, which is 15 to 20 c m long and is divided into three
regions. While being a part of the urinary system, the male urethra is also the terminal portion of the
duct system, and transports sperm out of the body.
As a review activity, identify the three sections of the male urethra by typing the correct label.
Feedback:
Top to bottom: Prostatic Urethra, Membranous Urethra, Penile Urethra
•
•
•
Prostatic Urethra: The more proximal region of the urethra, found within a gland.
Membranous Urethra: The region of the urethra at the base of the penis.
Penile Urethra: The most distal region and the longest portion of the urethra.
ACCESSORY GLANDS
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 9 of 15 of the online learning module.
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There are three accessory glands that nourish the sperm as they travel through the duct system.
Use the buttons to highlight each of the accessory glands and learn about the accessory glands.
Seminal Vesicle - Refer to Page 15
Prostate Gland - Refer to Page 16
Bulbourethral Glands - Refer to Pages 16-17
SEMINAL VESICLES
Subpage of Section 1 Slide 9 of 15 Seminal Vesicle Sub-Page 1/1
The two seminal vesicles are located on the posterior surface of the bladder, in front of the rectum.
The seminal vesicles are large, coiled, tubular glands.
The seminal vesicles provide fluid and nutrients to the ejaculate and make up 60% of the volume of
semen.
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PROSTATE GLAND
Subpage of Section 1 Slide 9 of 15 Prostate Gland 1/1
The single prostate gland is the size of a walnut and is located beneath the bladder. It consists of
tubular glands embedded in a mass of smooth muscle and connective tissue.
It produces and secretes sugars and enzymes, which account for about 33% of the volume of the
seminal fluid.
Prostatic fluid is rich in proteases, particularly prostate-specific antigen, that aid in liquefaction and
dissolution of cervical mucus in the female reproductive system. You will learn more about the female
cervix later in this module.
Reference:
Thieme teaching assistant.
BULBOURETHRAL GLANDS
Subpage of Section 1 Slide 9 of 15 Bulbourethral Glands 1/1
The two pea-sized bulbourethral glands are located immediately below the prostate, at the base of the
penis.
These glands secrete a thick, clear, alkaline mucus that drains into the penile urethra.
Secretion is released before ejaculation to neutralize traces of acidic urine in the urethra and to
lubricate the urethra and penis.
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Reference:
Thieme teaching assistant.
QUESTION: FUNCTION OF ACCESSORY GLANDS
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 10 of 15 of the online learning module.
Answer the question about the function of the accessory glands.
The accessory glands of the male reproductive system supply nutrients and alkaline mucus.
Speculate why each of these products are added to the sperm.
Feedback:
Your Professor’s Response:
Sperm require a high amount of nutrients to produce energy to travel through the male reproductive system,
and then through the female reproductive system for reproduction. The alkaline secretions neutralize the
acidic environment of the vagina.
REVIEW: THE PATHWAY OF SPERM
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 11 of 15 of the online learning module.
Sperm is produced in the seminiferous tubules of the testes and transported through a series of ducts
before exiting the body. From the testes, sperm passes through the epididymis, vas deferens,
ejaculatory duct, and urethra. Along its course through the male duct system fluid is secreted from
glands that contribute to the volume of semen.
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PENIS
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 12 of 15 of the online learning module.
The penis has both urinary and reproductive functions as it serves as a conduit for the pathway of
urine and sperm.
The penis consists of three parts.
Learn about each part.
1. Root of Penis
Fixed portion that attaches the penis to the ischium (pelvic bone).
2. Body of Penis
Tubular, moveable portion of the penis that consists of three cylinders of erectile tissues and contains
the urethra.
3. Glans of Penis
Expanded distal end (tip of the penis). Contains the external urethral opening.
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PENILE TISSUE
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 13 of 15 of the online learning module.
The penis is made up of two different types of erectile tissues. The two tissue types create three
cylinders
of tissue.
Learn about the two types of erectile tissue.
Corpora Cavernosa
These are two erectile cylinders on the dorsal surface of the penis, which make up most of the mass of
the penis. The proximal portions of the corpora cavernosa are known as the crura (singular crus) of the
penis and are attached to the bony pelvis by muscles.
Corpus Spongiosum
This cylinder contains the urethra and expands distally to form the glans of the penis. The proximal
end is enlarged and called the bulb of the penis.
Switch between the illustration and a cross-sectional image of the penis.
ACTIVITY: PARTS OF THE MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 14 of 15 of the online learning module.
Now that you have learned about the male reproductive system, label the organs and major structures
associated with the male reproductive system. Note that some hints are given with the text boxes.
Feedback:
Left column (from top down): Ampulla, Prostate, Penile Urethra, Testis
Right column (from top down): Vas Deferens, Seminal Vesicle, Bulbourethral, Epididymis, Seminiferous
Tubules
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Ampulla: The dilated distal portion of the Vas Deferens.
Prostate: A walnut-sized accessory gland that sits inferiorly to the urinary bladder.
Bulbourethral Gland: A pea-shaped accessory gland that sits at the base of the penis.
Testis: Paired oval-shaped organs found within the scrotum that produce sperm
Penile Urethra: The longest, most distal part of the male urethra
Seminal Vesicle: Paired accessory glands that sit posterior to the bladder and empties fluid
into the ejaculatory duct
Vas Deferens: The main duct that transports sperm from the epididymis to the urethra.
Epididymis: The comma shaped structure that receives and stores sperm from the
seminiferous tubules of the testes.
Seminiferous Tubules: Highly convoluted tubules in the testes where sperm is produced.
QUESTION: CLINICAL APPLICATION - VASECTOMY
This content was retrieved from Section 1 Slide 15 of 15 of the online learning module.
A vasectomy is a procedure performed by clamping or cutting the vas deferens as a permanent
method of birth control.
Answer the question about the theory behind this procedure.
Explain how this procedure would prevent pregnancy (without the use of any other method of
birth control).
Feedback:
Your Professor’s Response:
In a vasectomy, the cutting of the vas deferens would stop the sperm from traveling from the epididymis to
the urethra, and as a result, sperm would not be able to leave the male reproductive system to cause
fertilization in the female’s body.
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SECTION 02: FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 1 of 19 of the online learning module.
The female reproductive system differs largely from the male reproductive system but there are some
similarities between the two. Both systems are required in the creation of a fetus.
The female reproductive system involves a variety of structures working in synchrony to produce the
female gamete cell, an ovum, and to carry a fetus to full term.
This section will be covering these components of the female reproductive system:
•
•
•
•
•
Ovaries
Uterine Tubes
Uterus
Vagina
External Genitalia
THE OVARIES
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 2 of 19 of the online learning module.
The ovaries are paired organs located near the lateral walls of the pelvis. They measure 2 cm in length,
and 1-1.5 cm in thickness.
The ovaries are where the eggs, or ova, are produced and stored prior to ovulation.
Switch between the diagram and a cadaveric image.
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LIGAMENTS OF THE OVARIES
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 3 of 19 of the online learning module.
Various ligaments protect and anchor the ovaries. The ovaries are also protected by an outer covering
of dense connective tissue.
Learn about the ligaments of the ovaries.
Ovarian Ligament
The ovarian ligaments anchor the ovaries to the uterus.
Suspensory Ligament
The suspensory ligaments anchor the ovaries to the pelvic wall.
INTERNAL ANATOMY OF THE OVARIES
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 4 of 19 of the online learning module.
Similar to the testes, the ovaries are surrounded by a connective tissue capsule, known as the tunica
albuginea.
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Deep to the tunica albuginea, the ovaries are each divided into a cortex and medulla.
Reference:
Servier Medical Art
CORTEX OF THE OVARIES
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 5 of 19 of the online learning module.
The cortex contains many ovarian follicles, each at a different stage in development towards becoming
a mature follicle. One mature follicle is ovulated during a menstrual cycle.
Review the images in the numbered order to learn about the developmental stages of follicles.
1 - Refer to Page 24
2 - Refer to Pages 24-25
3 - Refer to Page 25
4 - Refer to Page 25
5 - Refer to Page 26
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References:
Young, B., O'Dowd, G., & Woodford, P. (2014). Wheater's functional histology : a text and colour atlas.
(6th Ed.).Philadelphia, P A : Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.
PRIMORDIAL FOLLICLE
Subpage of Section 2 Slide 5 of 19 Primordial Follicle 1/1
The primordial follicle is the most immature of the follicles and is made up of single layer of squamous
cells surrounding the oocyte.
Histological image depicting primordial follicles.
PRIMARY FOLLICLE
Subpage of Section 2 Slide 5 of 19 Primary Follicle 1/1
The primary follicle develops from the primordial follicle. This has two or more layers of cells
surrounding the egg.
Histological image depicting a primary follicle.
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SECONDARY FOLLICLE
Subpage of Section 2 Slide 5 of 19 Secondary Follicle 1/1
The secondary follicle develops next and is surrounded by many layers of cells. It also contains an
antrum, or fluid-filled space.
The secondary follicle is also known as the antral follicle.
Histological image depicting a secondary follicle.
CORPUS LUTEUM
Subpage of Section 2 Slide 5 of 19 Corpus Luteum 1/1
After ovulation, the corpus luteum develops from the remnants of the mature follicle.
The corpus luteum mainly produces progesterone and to a lesser extent, estrogen to support
fertilization. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates.
Histological image depicting the corpus luteum.
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Reference:
Young, B., O'Dowd, G., & Woodford, P. (2014). Wheater's functional histology : a text and colour atlas.
(6th Ed.). Philadelphia, P A : Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.
GRAAFIAN FOLLICLE
Subpage of Section 2 Slide 5 of 19 Graafian Follicle 1/1
The Graafian, or tertiary follicle, is the mature follicle that will be ovulated. Ovulation is the rupture of a
Graafian follicle, where it is ejected from the ovary.
The Graafian follicle is also surrounded by multiple layers of cells and contains an antrum, although it
has grown larger relative to the secondary follicle.
Coronal section of an ovary.
MEDULLA OF THE OVARIES
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 6 of 19 of the online learning module.
The medulla is the inner region of the ovary. It contains blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatics that
supply the tissue of the ovary.
Coronal section of an ovary.
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UTERINE TUBES
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 7 of 19 of the online learning module.
The uterine tubes are the ducts of the female reproductive system. They are also called the fallopian
tubes, or oviducts, and measure 10-12 c m in length.
Learn about the regions of the uterine tubes.
1. Infundibulum
The infundibulum is the funnel-shaped, distal end that opens into the peritoneal cavity and has finger
like extensions called fimbriae. The function of the infundibulum is to capture the egg after it is
released from an ovary.
2. Ampulla
The ampulla is the longest and widest portion. It is where fertilization normally occurs.
3. Isthmus
The isthmus is the proximal portion (closest to the uterus) and passes through the uterine wall,
opening into the lumen of the uterus.
Posterior view of the female reproductive organs.
UTERUS
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 8 of 19 of the online learning module.
The uterus (womb) is a pear-shaped muscular organ located in the pelvic cavity, between the urinary
bladder and the rectum.
The uterus is the organ that carries and supports the developing fetus during pregnancy and contracts
to eject the fetus during childbirth.
Learn about the regions of the uterus.
1. Fundus
The fundus is the most superior portion of the uterus. It is dome shaped and extends between the
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uterine tubes.
2. Body
The body is the main part of the uterus and is composed of smooth muscle.
3.
Cervix
QUIZ: THE FUNDUS
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 9 of 19 of the online learning module.
The superior dome-shaped portion of the uterus is known as the fundus.
Based on what you have learned about the female reproductive structures, answer the question.
Which digestive system organ also has a fundus?
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Esophagus
Stomach
Small Intestine
Large Intestine
Feedback:
The correct answer: Stomach
HISTOLOGY OF UTERINE WALL
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 10 of 19 of the online learning module.
The uterine wall has three layers.
Select the names of the layers to learn about them.
Endometrium
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The glandular inner lining of the uterus which undergoes changes throughout the menstrual cycle. The
endometrium makes up 10% of the total mass of the uterus.
Myometrium
The middle layer of smooth muscle that makes up 90% of the total mass of the uterus.
Perimetrium
The thin outer layer which is composed of serosa.
BROAD LIGAMENT OF THE UTERUS
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 11 of 19 of the online learning module.
The uterus is supported by the broad ligament, which drapes over the uterus.
VAGINA
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 12 of 19 of the online learning module.
The vagina is located inferior to the cervix, and it is approximately 10 c m in length.
The vagina connects the uterus to outside the body and acts as the birth canal.
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Coronal section of the vagina.
HISTOLOGY OF THE VAGINA
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 13 of 19 of the online learning module.
The histology of the vagina can be organized into layers of cells.
The mucosa of the vagina is stratified squamous. This layer produces glycogen, which is metabolized
by bacteria into lactic acid. This serves to protect the vagina by creating an acidic environment.
The muscularis is elastic and loose connective tissue, with an inner circular and very thick outer
longitudinal layer of smooth muscle.
The vagina is covered by an adventitia.
QUIZ: CONNECT YOUR KNOWLEDGE
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 14 of 19 of the online learning module.
The mucosa of the vagina creates an acidic environment that protects the vagina. However, this is
problematic for sperm travelling through the vagina to reach the uterine tubes for fertilization. You
may remember that glands in the male reproductive system secrete alkaline mucus into semen to
protect sperm from the acidic environment.
Answer the question using your knowledge of the male reproductive system.
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Which gland is responsible for secreting alkaline mucus into semen?
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Pituitary Gland
Thyroid Gland
Parotid Gland
Bulbourethral Gland
Feedback:
The correct answer: Bulbourethral Gland
FEMALE EXTERNAL GENITALIA
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 15 of 19 of the online learning module.
The external genitalia lies external to the vagina. It is also known as the vulva or pudendum. It includes
several components.
Learn about each component of the vulva.
1. Mons Pubis
The mons pubis is the adipose tissue overlying the pubic bone.
2. Clitoris
Alt Text: An illustration of the female external genitalia, depicting the mons pubis, clitroris, labia majora,
labia minora and the vestibule.
3. Labia Majora
The labia majora, meaning “large lips” are two elongated, fatty folds of skin that are homologous to
the male scrotum and bear pubic hair.
4. Labia Minora
The labia minora, meaning “small lips” are two thin, fat free folds of skin close to the vestibule, or the
opening of the vagina. The labia minora are devoid of pubic hair.
5. Vestibule
The vestibule of the vulva is the space bounded by the labia minora. It bears the external urethral and
vaginal openings.
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MAMMARY GLANDS
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 16 of 19 of the online learning module.
The mammary glands, or breasts, are modified sweat glands in the female that produce and secrete
milk. They consist of 15-20 lobes that contain glands. Connective tissue separate the lobes and
function as the suspensory ligaments that attach the breast to the underlying muscle and overlying
skin (natural support of the breast).
The mammary glands include the lactiferous ducts, which drain into the nipple. The pigmented area
around the nipple is known as the areola.
Interesting Fact
The colour of the areola can change with pregnancy!
ACTIVITY: PARTS OF THE FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 17 of 19 of the online learning module.
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Now that you have learned about the female reproductive system, label the organs and major structures
through the female reproductive system.
Feedback:
From top (clockwise): Fundus, Uterine tubes, Ovary, Myometrium, External os, Vagina, Cervical canal,
Internal os, Broad ligament, Fimbriae
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Fundus: The most superior region of the uterus
Uterine tubes: The ducts of the female reproductive system that carry the eggs from the ovaries to the
uterus
Ovary: A pair of organs that produce eggs
Myometrium: The muscle layer of uterus
External os: Opening of the cervical canal that connects the cervix and the vagina
Vagina: Connects the uterus to the outer body
Cervical canal: The canal of the cervix that connects the uterine cavity to the vagina
Internal os: Opening of the cervical canal that connects the uterus and cervix
Broad ligaments: Membranous sheet that drapes over the uterus to provide support
Fimbriae: Finger-like processes on the proximal end of the uterine tube
VIDEO: ECTOPIC PREGNANCY
This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 18 of 19 of the online learning module.
Typically, fertilization occurs in the middle region of the ampulla, following which, the zygote, or
fertilized egg, travels to implant in the lining of the uterus. However, it is possible that fertilization can
occur outside of the typical region of fertilization, resulting in implantation in an abnormal location known as ectopic pregnancy.
Watch the video regarding ectopic pregnancy, also known as tubal pregnancy. As you watch the
video, think about the health concerns associated with ectopic pregnancy.
Watch this video: Ectopic Pregnancy
Page Link:
https://www.youtube.com/embed/HsYHtczWiWI
QUESTION: ECTOPIC PREGNANCY
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This content was retrieved from Section 2 Slide 19 of 19 of the online learning module.
Based on what you have learned about ectopic pregnancies, answer the question.
Briefly explain one health risk to the mother and one health risk to the fetus associated with
ectopic pregnancy.
Feedback:
Your Professor’s Response:
The ectopic pregnancy would put the mother’s life at risk, especially if major bleeding was to occur. The
developing fetus may attach to other abdominopelvic organs in the mother for blood supply, causing strain
on the organ. Ectopic pregnancies put the developing fetus at harm because, unlike the uterus, the ectopic
sites are not able to contain and nourish the fetus.
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CONCLUSION
MODULE 12 SUMMARY
This content was retrieved from Conclusion Slide 1 of 2 of the online learning module.
Module 12 established the differences between the male and female reproductive systems, while
emphasizing the complexity of each system. Understanding the reproductive systems of both the male
and female is important to understanding how the human species is able to continue, and why there
are two sexes and how they differ.
Congratulations! You have completed the final module of ANAT 100!
MODULE COMPLETE!
This content was retrieved from Conclusion Slide 2 of 2 of the online learning module.
SECTION-01: MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
SECTION-02: FEMALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
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