Hormones & Glands
What gland is known as the “master gland”?
The pituitary gland
What male organ produces sperm?
The testes
What term describes the time when a child’s body becomes capable of reproduction?
Puberty
What is the male gamete called?
Sperm
How do hormones help maintain body balance (homeostasis)?
They regulate processes (e.g., blood sugar, growth, salt balance)
What hormone regulates blood sugar?
Insulin
What female organ produces eggs (ova)?
The ovary
Name one secondary sexual characteristic in males.
Deep voice, facial hair, increased muscle mass
What is the female gamete called?
Egg (ovum)
Why is nutrition important for the endocrine and reproductive systems?
Proper nutrients allow glands/organs to function and develop properly
Which gland releases adrenaline during a “fight or flight” response?
The adrenal gland
What structure in the female reproductive system is where a fertilized egg implants and develops?
The uterus
Name one secondary sexual characteristic in females.
Breast development, wider hips, menstruation begins
What is fertilization?
The union of sperm and egg to form a zygote
How can lack of sleep or repeated stress impact hormones and reproduction?
Causes hormone imbalance, affects puberty, fertility, growth
What hormone stimulates growth during childhood and puberty?
Growth hormone
What tube connects the testes to the urethra in the male reproductive system?
The vas deferens
What hormone is primarily responsible for male puberty changes?
Testosterone
After fertilization, what must happen next in human reproduction?
Implantation in uterus, development of embryo, then fetus
What is one way the endocrine system and reproductive system work together?
Reproductive glands produce hormones and gametes; endocrine system sends hormonal signals to time puberty and gamete release
Name the gland that controls metabolism and its main hormone.
The thyroid gland; thyroxine (T4) / triiodothyronine (T3)
What is the function of the Fallopian tube?
To transport the egg from the ovary to the uterus; site of fertilization
Why is puberty important for reproduction?
It prepares the body with mature organs and hormones for gamete production and reproduction
What is a zygote and where does it form?
It is the first cell after sperm+egg unite; forms in the Fallopian tube and later implants in uterus
Why is it important to protect the reproductive system (and overall health) for future generations?
Healthy organs & hormones support reproduction, healthy offspring, and the passing of traits (heritability, genetics)