Human Reproduction and Reproductive Health
Human Reproduction and Reproductive Health combines anatomy, hormone sequences and applied fertility care. Expect questions on spermatogenesis and oogenesis timelines, the menstrual cycle, placenta, and assisted reproductive technologies.
Core rules
- Spermatogenesis: spermatogonia → primary spermatocytes → meiosis I → secondary spermatocytes → meiosis II → spermatids → spermiogenesis. Sertoli cells nourish; Leydig cells make testosterone.
- Oogenesis begins in the fetus. Primary oocytes arrest in prophase I; at ovulation a secondary oocyte is released, and meiosis II completes only after fertilisation.
- Menstrual cycle: FSH → follicular growth and oestrogen; LH surge around day 14 → ovulation; corpus luteum → progesterone → maintains endometrium.
- Fertilisation occurs at the ampullary–isthmic junction. Cleavage → morula → blastocyst → implantation. Placenta secretes hCG, hPL, oestrogen and progesterone.
- Contraception: barrier, IUDs, hormonal pills, surgical sterilisation. ART: IVF-ET, ZIFT, GIFT, IUI, ICSI.
Worked example
A woman has bilaterally blocked fallopian tubes but a normal uterus and regular ovulation. GIFT and ZIFT both require a functional tube, so they are unsuitable. IVF is chosen: oocytes are collected, fertilised with the partner's sperm in vitro, and the embryo is transferred directly into the uterus (IVF-ET).
Traps
hCG maintains the corpus luteum in early pregnancy; it is not the main placental hormone. Oxytocin is released from the posterior pituitary, not the ovary. Colostrum is rich in IgA. IUI is not IVF.