Fundamentals of Human Reproductive Biology

📋 Course Outline

1. Primary and secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive organs
2. Genetic determination of sexual identity and prenatal development
3. Hormonal control of sexual maturation and reproductive function at puberty
4. Neuroendocrine regulation of male and female reproductive function
5. Causes and types of infertility in couples
6. Medical assisted procreation techniques and their indications
7. Hormonal contraception mechanisms, emergency contraception, and legal abortion
8. Neurobiology of pleasure and sexual behavior in the brain

📖 1. Primary and secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive organs

🔑 Key Concepts & Definitions

• Cycle: a recurring sequence in female reproductive physiology involving the production and release of ovules, typically lasting between 22 and 35 days, with ovulation occurring during this process.
• Ovaries: reproductive organs in females that produce ovules, functioning with a cyclic rhythm aligned with the female cycle.
• Testicles: male reproductive organs that continuously produce spermatozoa in millions each day, regardless of the cycle.
• Ovules: female gametes produced by the ovaries, released cyclically during ovulation.
• Spermatozoa: male gametes produced continuously in large quantities by the testicles, expelled as semen during ejaculation.

📝 Essential Points