The Reproductive Systems (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Biology): Revision Note

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 out urine or semen, a ring of muscle in the urethra prevents the urine and semen 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 temperature slightly lower than body temperature

Penis

Passes urine out of the body from the bladder and allows semen to pass into the vagina of a woman during sexual intercourse

Oviduct

Connects the ovary to the uterus and is lined with ciliated cells to push the released ovum down it. Fertilisation occurs here

Ovary

Contains ova (female gametes) which will mature and develop when hormones are released

Uterus

Muscular bag with a soft lining where the fertilised egg (zygote) will be implanted to develop into a foetus

Cervix

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

Vagina

Muscular tube that leads to the inside of the woman’s body, where the male’s penis will enter during sexual intercourse and sperm are deposited