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PY9.1-10 | Introduction to Reproductive Physiology
Learning Objectives
- Explain how biological sex is determined at fertilisation and how the gonads differentiate into testes or ovaries.
- Describe the stages of puberty and the hormonal changes that trigger it.
- Outline the functional anatomy of the male reproductive system and explain spermatogenesis and testosterone regulation.
- Describe the female reproductive system, the roles of oestrogen and progesterone, and the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.
- Explain the menstrual cycle: follicular phase, ovulation, luteal phase, and menstruation.
- Enumerate male and female contraceptive methods with their physiological rationale.
- Discuss the physiology of pregnancy, parturition, and lactation.
- Explain the hormonal basis of pregnancy tests.
- Describe hormonal changes and clinical effects during perimenopause and menopause.
- Discuss common causes of infertility in couples and the physiological basis of IVF.
INSTRUCTIONS
Work through each part at your own pace. Each section includes key concepts, diagrams, and a self-check. Complete the Practice Quiz at the end of the module to test your understanding. Estimated total reading time: 55–65 minutes.
References
- OpenStax Anatomy & Physiology 2e, Chapter 27 — The Reproductive System (textbook)
- OpenStax Anatomy & Physiology 2e, Chapter 28 — Development and Inheritance (textbook)
- Guyton & Hall, Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th ed. — Chapters 80–83 (textbook)
- NMC CBUC 2024 — Physiology Competencies PY9.1–PY9.10 (curriculum)
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