PhysiologyLesson 1 of 3 in the course Animal Reproduction and Development

Hormonal Regulation of Male and Female Reproduction

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 5 fill-in sentences · English

Save course
Lesson progress
0 / 5

Your progress is kept in this browser only.Sign up to save it

Summary

Human reproduction is regulated by communication between the brain, pituitary gland, and reproductive organs. This lesson introduces the shared hormonal control system and explains how it regulates sperm production and male secondary sexual characteristics.

The hypothalamus monitors hormonal conditions and helps control the reproductive system. When reproductive stimulation is needed, it releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). GnRH signals the anterior pituitary to release two gonadotropins into the blood: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

All flashcards

Gonadotropin
A hormone, such as FSH or LH, that acts on the gonads to regulate reproduction.
Testosterone feedback
Rising testosterone reduces hypothalamic and pituitary release of GnRH, FSH, and LH.
Inhibin in the male reproductive system
Sertoli-cell hormone that helps regulate sperm production by inhibiting GnRH and FSH release when sperm count is high.
Ovarian cycle versus menstrual cycle
The ovarian cycle describes follicle development and egg release; the menstrual cycle describes changes in the endometrium.
Menopause
The transition in which declining ovarian responsiveness is associated with periods becoming less frequent and eventually stopping.

Quiz questions

  1. Which pair correctly names the ovarian and uterine-lining phases that follow ovulation?Answer: Luteal phase and secretory phase.
  2. What event is triggered by the LH surge near the middle of a typical menstrual cycle?Answer: Rupture of the mature follicle and release of its egg.
  3. Which hormones are produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation?Answer: Estrogen and progesterone.
  4. What change in ovarian function is associated with menopause?Answer: The ovaries become less responsive to FSH and LH.
  5. What is a reproductive endocrinologist's area of specialization?Answer: Hormonal disorders related to reproduction and infertility.

Based on Biology 2e by Mary Ann Clark, Matthew Douglas, Jung Choi (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

More in Physiology

All Physiology lessons
PhysiologyHormonal Regulation of Renal Fluid, Vascular, and Mineral Balance5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 4 gamesPlay free →PhysiologyCardiac Cycle and Heart Sounds: Valve Timing, ECG, and Auscultation5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 4 gamesPlay free →PhysiologyEndocrine Hormone Signaling and Major Gland Functions5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 4 gamesPlay free →PhysiologyEmbryonic Origins and Age-Related Changes in Endocrine Function5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 4 gamesPlay free →PhysiologyFemale Reproductive System: Anatomy, Cycles, and Lifespan Changes5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 4 gamesPlay free →PhysiologyDigestive Tract Function, Nutrient Absorption, and Energy Balance5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 4 gamesPlay free →