Human Reproductive Systems (Edexcel IGCSE Biology (Modular)): Revision Note

The male reproductive system consists of several key components:

• Prostate gland: Produces fluid called semen that provides sperm cells with nutrients

• Sperm duct: Sperm passes through the sperm duct to be mixed with fluids produced by the glands before being passed into the urethra for ejaculation

• Urethra: Tube running down the centre of the penis that can carry urine or semen. A ring of muscle in the urethra prevents them from mixing

• Testis: Contained in a bag of skin (scrotum) and produces sperm (male gamete) and testosterone (hormone)

• Scrotum: Sac supporting the testes outside the body to ensure sperm are kept at a temperature slightly lower than body temperature

• Penis: Passes urine out of the body from the bladder and allows semen to pass into the vagina during sexual intercourse

The female reproductive system consists of several key components:

• Oviducts: Connects ovary to the uterus, lined with ciliated cells to push released ovum, fertilisation occurs here

• Ovaries: Contains ova (female gametes) that mature and develop when hormones are released

• Uterus: Muscular bag with soft lining where fertilised egg (zygote) implants to develop into foetus

• Cervix: Ring of muscle at the lower end of the uterus to keep the developing foetus in place during pregnancy

• Vagina: Muscular tube leading to inside of woman's body, where male's penis enters and sperm are deposited during intercourse