ACTIVITY 3: BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVE IN GENDER AND SEXUALiTY

1. Enumerate and describe the function of external genitalia of female and male
respectively.

Female External Genitalia (Vulva):

1. Mons Pubis: The rounded fatty area over the pubic bone, covered with pubic hair.
2. Labia Majora: Two large, outer folds of skin that protect the inner genital structures.
3. Labia Minora: Smaller, inner folds of skin that enclose the vaginal and urethral
openings.
4. Clitoris: A sensitive organ located at the top of the labia minora, responsible for sexual
pleasure.
5. Vaginal Opening: The entrance to the vagina, where sexual intercourse and childbirth
occur.
6. Urethral Opening: The opening through which urine is expelled from the body.

Male External Genitalia (Penis and Scrotum):

1. Penis: The external male reproductive organ that serves for urination and sexual
intercourse.
2. Shaft: The long, tubular part of the penis.
3. Glans: The rounded tip of the penis, often covered by the foreskin (if not circumcised).
4. Foreskin: A fold of skin that covers the glans in uncircumcised males.
5. Scrotum: A pouch-like structure that contains the testes (testicles), which produce
sperm and male hormones.
6. Testes: The male reproductive glands responsible for producing sperm and
testosterone.
These external genitalia have distinct functions related to reproduction, sexual pleasure,
and waste elimination in both males and females.
2. Enumerate and describe the the functions of internal reproductive structures of
female and male genitalia respectively.

Female Internal Reproductive Structures:

1. Ovaries: These paired organs produce eggs (ova) and release them during the
menstrual cycle. They also produce female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone),
which regulate the menstrual cycle and secondary sexual characteristics.
2. Fallopian Tubes (Oviducts): These tubes capture eggs released by the ovaries and
provide a site for fertilization by sperm. They then transport the fertilized egg (zygote) to
the uterus for implantation.
3. Uterus (Womb): The uterus serves as the site for the implantation and development
of a fertilized egg during pregnancy. Its muscular walls contract during childbirth to expel
the baby.
 4. Cervix: This lower part of the uterus acts as a passageway between the uterus and the
vagina. It produces mucus that changes in consistency throughout the menstrual cycle,
influencing fertility and acting as a protective barrier.
5. Vagina: The vagina is a muscular canal that connects the cervix to the external
genitalia. It serves as a passage for menstrual flow, childbirth, and is the site of sexual
intercourse.

Male Internal Reproductive Structures:

1. Testes (Testicles): These paired glands produce sperm through a process called
spermatogenesis and also secrete the male sex hormone testosterone, which is essential
for the development of secondary sexual characteristics.
2. Epididymis: The epididymis is a coiled tube located on the back of each testicle. It
serves as a storage and maturation site for sperm, allowing them to become motile and
gain the ability to fertilize an egg.
3. Vas Deferens: The vas deferens is a muscular tube that carries mature sperm from the
epididymis to the urethra during ejaculation.
4. Prostate Gland: This gland surrounds the urethra and secretes a fluid that nourishes
and protects sperm, forming a significant portion of semen.
5. Seminal Vesicles: These glands secrete a fluid rich in fructose and other substances
that provide energy for sperm and contribute to semen volume.
6. Bulbourethral (Cowper's) Glands: These small glands near the base of the penis
produce a clear, lubricating fluid that cleanses the urethra and enhances sperm
motility.The internal reproductive structures in both males and females play vital roles in
the production, transport, and fertilization of gametes, as well as the development of a
fertilized egg into a fetus during pregnancy.
3. Name five(5) physical changes that take place in male and female during puberty.

Physical Changes in Females During Puberty:

1. Breast Development: The mammary glands in the breasts begin to develop, leading to
an increase in breast size and shape.
2. Menstruation: Girls start to experience their first menstrual periods, marking the
onset of fertility. This typically occurs between ages 9 and 16.
3. Hips Widening: The hips and pelvis gradually widen, contributing to a more feminine
body shape.
4. Body Hair Growth: There is an increase in the growth of fine body hair, particularly in
the underarms and pubic area.
5. Acne and Skin Changes: Some girls may experience changes in skin texture, including
increased oil production and the development of acne.

Physical Changes in Males During Puberty:

1. Voice Deepening: The larynx (voice box) grows, leading to a deeper voice in males.
 2. Facial and Body Hair Growth: The growth of facial hair (beard and mustache) and body
hair (chest, back, and limbs) becomes more prominent.
3. Enlargement of the Adam's Apple: The thyroid cartilage in the throat enlarges,
resulting in the characteristic Adam's apple.
4. Muscle Growth: There is an increase in muscle mass and strength, contributing to a
more masculine physique.
5. increased Height: Boys typically experience a growth spurt, leading to an increase in
height.
These physical changes are driven by hormonal shifts, primarily the release of sex
hormones (estrogen in females and testosterone in males), and they are essential for the
development of secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive maturity. The timing
and extent of these changes can vary among individuals.
4. Compare and identify the main difference of male and female reproductive system
physically, biologically and sexually ( gonads/gametes characteristics )

Physically:
1. Gonads (Primary Reproductive Organs):
- Males: The male gonads are the testes (testicles), which are located in the scrotum
outside the abdominal cavity.
- Females: The female gonads are the ovaries, situated within the abdominal cavity.
2. Secondary Sexual Characteristics:
- Males: Develop features such as facial and body hair, a deeper voice, and an Adam's
apple during puberty.
- Females: Develop features like breast development, wider hips, and a higher
percentage of body fat during puberty.
Biologically:
1. Gametes (Sperm and Eggs):
- Males: Produce small, highly motile gametes called sperm. Sperm are mobile and
designed for fertilizing eggs.
- Females: Produce larger, immobile gametes called eggs (ova or oocytes). Eggs contain
the nutrients and genetic material needed for fertilization.
2. Hormones:
- Males: Produce primarily testosterone, which is responsible for male secondary
sexual characteristics and sperm production.
- Females: Produce estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle,
support pregnancy, and are responsible for female secondary sexual characteristics.
Sexually:
1. Reproductive Roles:
- Males: Typically have a role focused on fertilization, as sperm are designed for
mobility and reaching the egg.
 - Females: Typically have a role focused on nurturing and carrying the developing
embryo and fetus during pregnancy.
2. Fertilization:
- Males: Contribute sperm during sexual intercourse for fertilization.
- Females: Provide the egg and a suitable environment within the uterus for
fertilization.
3. Reproductive Anatomy:
- Males: Have external genitalia consisting of the penis and scrotum.
- Females:Have external genitalia called the vulva, which includes the labia, clitoris,
vaginal opening, and other structures.
In summary, the male and female reproductive systems differ physically in terms of
gonad location and secondary sexual characteristics. Biologically, they produce distinct
gametes and hormones. Sexually, they have different reproductive roles and anatomical
structures. These differences reflect their specialized functions in human reproduction.
5. Describe how female and male reproductive cell are produced and their fertilization
process

Production of Female Reproductive Cells (Eggs):

1. Oogenesis: The process of egg production begins before a female is born and
continues throughout her reproductive years. In the fetal ovaries, primordial germ cells
develop into primary oocytes, each surrounded by a layer of granulosa cells.
2. Maturation: During a female's menstrual cycle, usually one primary oocyte resumes
development each month. It undergoes meiosis, a specialized type of cell division,
resulting in the formation of one mature egg (ovum) and three polar bodies, which do
not contribute to fertilization.

Production of Male Reproductive Cells (Sperm):

1. Spermatogenesis: Sperm production begins at puberty in the testes. Spermatogonia,
specialized germ cells, undergo a series of divisions to produce spermatocytes. These
spermatocytes undergo meiosis to form mature sperm cells (spermatozoa).
2. Maturation: Immature sperm cells undergo changes in the epididymis, where they
gain motility and the ability to fertilize an egg.

Fertilization Process:
1. Egg Release: In females, during the menstrual cycle, a mature egg is released from
one of the ovaries in a process called ovulation. The egg is then captured by the fallopian
tube (oviduct).
2. Sperm Transport: During sexual intercourse, millions of sperm are ejaculated into the
female's vagina. They navigate through the cervix and uterus and into the fallopian tube
where fertilization typically occurs.
 3. Fertilization: Fertilization happens when a sperm successfully penetrates the egg's
outer membrane, which is called the zona pellucida. The sperm's nucleus fuses with the
egg's nucleus, combining their genetic material.
4. Zygote Formation: The fertilized egg is now called a zygote. It contains the complete
set of genetic information needed to develop into a human.
5. Cell Division: The zygote undergoes rapid cell divisions through mitosis, forming a
blastocyst as it travels down the fallopian tube towards the uterus.
6. Implantation: The blastocyst eventually reaches the uterus and attaches itself to the
uterine lining (endometrium) in a process called implantation.
7. Embryo Development: The embryo continues to develop within the uterus, with cells
differentiating into various tissues and organs. This eventually leads to the formation of a
fetus.
8. Pregnancy: If implantation is successful, the pregnancy progresses, and the fetus
develops over a period of approximately nine months until childbirth.

Fertilization is the critical moment when genetic material from both parents combines,
resulting in the unique genetic makeup of the offspring. The process is highly regulated
and complex, involving both male and female reproductive cells and structures.
6. Describe the three phases of uterine cycle and two phases of ovarian cycle of female
reproductive system

Uterine Cycle Phases:

The uterine cycle involves changes in the endometrial lining of the uterus, which
prepares for potential pregnancy.

1. Menstrual Phase:
- Duration: About 3-7 days.
- Description: This phase marks the start of the cycle. If pregnancy hasn't occurred, the
corpus luteum from the previous cycle breaks down, leading to a decrease in estrogen
and progesterone levels. This causes the uterine lining (endometrium) to shed, resulting
in menstruation.
- Function: Shedding of the old uterine lining prepares the uterus for the development
of a new one.

2. Proliferative Phase:
- Duration: Approximately 9-10 days.
- Description: Following menstruation, rising levels of estrogen from the maturing
ovarian follicles stimulate the endometrial tissue to thicken and regenerate. This phase
prepares the uterus for potential implantation.
- Function: Rebuilding the endometrial lining with a nourishing layer of blood vessels
and glands.
 3. Secretory Phase:
- Duration: Around 14 days.
- Description: After ovulation, the corpus luteum forms from the ruptured ovarian
follicle and starts producing progesterone. This hormone stimulates further thickening of
the endometrial lining, making it more conducive for the implantation of a fertilized egg.
- Function: Preparing the uterus for possible pregnancy by creating a nutrient-rich
environment for a developing embryo.

Ovarian Cycle Phases:

The ovarian cycle involves changes in the ovaries as they produce and release eggs (ova).

1. Follicular Phase:
- Duration: Variable but typically around 13-14 days.
- Description: This phase begins with the development of ovarian follicles in response
to rising levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). One dominant follicle matures and
releases an egg (ovulation).
- Function: Preparing and releasing a mature egg for possible fertilization.

2. Luteal Phase:
- Duration: About 14 days (relatively constant).
- Description: After ovulation, the ruptured follicle transforms into the corpus luteum,
which secretes progesterone. Progesterone helps maintain the endometrial lining,
preparing it for potential implantation. If fertilization doesn't occur, the corpus luteum
regresses, leading to a decline in hormone levels.
- Function: Supporting a possible pregnancy and, if pregnancy doesn't occur, preparing
for the next menstrual cycle.

These cycles are regulated by the interplay of hormones, including estrogen,

progesterone, FSH, and luteinizing hormone (LH), and they are essential for the female
reproductive system's proper functioning and fertility.
7. What are the roles of hypothalamus, pituitary glands, FSH and LH in the female
reproductive system
In the female reproductive system, the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, follicle-stimulating
hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) play crucial roles in regulating the
menstrual cycle and various aspects of female fertility:

1. Hypothalamus:
- The hypothalamus, located in the brain, monitors various hormonal signals in the
bloodstream.
 - It produces gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in a pulsatile manner, sending
signals to the anterior pituitary gland to regulate the release of FSH and LH.
2. Pituitary Gland:
- The anterior pituitary gland responds to the GnRH signals from the hypothalamus by
releasing FSH and LH.
- It secretes FSH and LH into the bloodstream, which travel to the ovaries to regulate
the ovarian cycle.
3. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH):
- FSH plays a central role in the development of ovarian follicles.
- It stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles in the ovaries.
- FSH promotes the production of estrogen by the developing follicles.
4. Luteinizing Hormone (LH):
- LH plays a critical role in triggering ovulation and maintaining the corpus luteum (a
structure formed from the ruptured ovarian follicle) after ovulation.
- It surges in concentration, causing the mature follicle to release an egg (ovulation)
into the fallopian tube.
- LH stimulates the corpus luteum to produce progesterone, which helps prepare and
maintain the uterine lining for potential implantation.

The interaction between these hormones and glands is essential for the regulation of
the menstrual cycle and the processes of follicular development, ovulation, and the
preparation of the uterine lining for possible pregnancy. If fertilization doesn't occur,
hormonal changes lead to the breakdown of the corpus luteum, causing a drop in
progesterone and the start of menstruation, marking the beginning of a new menstrual
cycle.
8. From the attached mind map, describe the progression of male and female a
reproductive system from birth, puberty & adulthood
Male Reproductive System Progression:

At Birth:
- At birth, male infants have relatively undeveloped reproductive systems.
- The testes, which are the primary male reproductive organs, are present but relatively
small and inactive.

During Childhood:
- Throughout childhood, the male reproductive system remains largely quiescent.
- The testes continue to grow slowly but do not produce mature sperm.
- Secondary sexual characteristics such as facial and body hair, deepening of the voice,
and significant muscle development do not develop until puberty.

At Puberty:
- Puberty typically begins around ages 9 to 14.
- The hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain start secreting hormones,
particularly luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which
stimulate the testes.
- The testes respond by increasing the production of testosterone, which triggers the
development of male secondary sexual characteristics.
- Spermatogenesis begins, and the testes start producing mature sperm.
- The male reproductive system becomes fully functional, allowing for sexual maturity
and the ability to reproduce.

Adulthood:
- In adulthood, the male reproductive system remains active, continuously producing
sperm throughout a man's life.
- Testosterone levels are maintained, supporting sexual function, muscle mass, and other
male characteristics.

Female Reproductive System Progression:

At Birth:
- Female infants are born with a complete set of reproductive structures, including
ovaries and all internal and external genitalia.
- However, the reproductive system remains inactive during childhood.

During Childhood:
- The female reproductive system is quiescent throughout childhood.
- The ovaries contain primordial follicles but do not produce mature eggs.
- Secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development and wider hips, do not
develop until puberty.

At Puberty:
- Puberty typically begins around ages 9 to 14.
- The hypothalamus and pituitary gland initiate the release of hormones, particularly
follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).
- These hormones stimulate the ovaries to begin ovulation, where mature eggs (ova) are
released.
- The menstrual cycle starts, characterized by regular ovulation and menstruation.
- The female reproductive system becomes capable of supporting pregnancy and
childbirth.

Adulthood:
 - In adulthood, the female reproductive system continues to undergo monthly menstrual
cycles until menopause, typically occurring around ages 45 to 55.
- Ovulation occurs regularly until menopause when the ovaries cease releasing eggs.
- The system can support pregnancy, and if fertilization occurs, the female body can
nurture and carry a developing fetus.

The progression of the male and female reproductive systems from birth to adulthood
involves significant hormonal changes and the development of secondary sexual
characteristics, ultimately leading to sexual maturity and the capacity for reproduction.
9. Who are at risk of more reproductive related pathophysiological diseases during their
lifetime. Who is more superior then based on their reproductive functions for men and
women
It's crucial to emphasize that reproductive health and the risk of reproductive-related
pathophysiological diseases are not indicators of superiority or inferiority between men
and women. Both genders are susceptible to various reproductive health issues, and it is
neither appropriate nor accurate to assign superiority based on these factors.

Reproductive health risks are influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental,

and lifestyle factors. Certain conditions or diseases may be more prevalent in one gender
due to biological differences, but this does not reflect the overall value or worth of
individuals.

In today's society, the focus is on gender equality and recognizing that all individuals,
regardless of gender, have equal rights, dignity, and worth. Promoting equality,
respecting individual choices, and providing access to healthcare and education are
essential principles for ensuring the well-being and health of everyone.

Superiority and inferiority should never be attributed to gender. It is more productive

and fair to promote understanding, empathy, and equal opportunities for all individuals,
irrespective of their reproductive functions or health risks.