The gonads—the testes and ovaries—produce sex cells and hormones that support reproductive development and function. During pregnancy, the placenta also produces hormones that help sustain pregnancy and prepare the body for childbirth and lactation. This lesson explains these hormones and introduces the effects and risks of anabolic steroid misuse.
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What are the main reproductive roles of testosterone?
Testosterone supports development of the male reproductive system, maturation of sperm cells, and secondary sex characteristics such as a deeper voice, body hair, and increased muscle mass.
What is inhibin, and what does it do?
Inhibin is a peptide hormone produced by the testes and by granulosa cells in ovarian follicles. It inhibits FSH secretion from the anterior pituitary.
What are the roles of hCG, hPL, and relaxin in pregnancy?
hCG promotes progesterone synthesis and helps reduce the mother's immune response to protect the fetus. hPL contributes to breast preparation for lactation. Relaxin is thought to soften and widen the pubic symphysis in preparation for childbirth.
What are anabolic steroids, and why can their misuse be hazardous?
Anabolic steroids are synthetic versions of testosterone that can promote tissue and muscle growth. Misuse can cause cardiovascular, liver, reproductive, and psychological harms.
Quiz questions
Which function is supported by testosterone?Answer: Sperm maturation and male secondary sex characteristics
What effect does inhibin have on the anterior pituitary?Answer: It reduces FSH secretion.
Which hormone group includes estradiol, estriol, and estrone?Answer: Estrogens
Which role is associated with human placental lactogen (hPL)?Answer: Contributing to preparation of the breasts for lactation
What is relaxin thought to do in preparation for childbirth?Answer: Help soften and widen the pubic symphysis
Based on Anatomy and Physiology 2e by J. Gordon Betts, Kelly A. Young, James A. Wise, Eddie Johnson, Brandon Poe, Dean H. Kruse, Oksana Korol, Jody E. Johnson, Mark Womble, Peter DeSaix (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.