Human Reproduction Class 12 NCERT Notes

Human Reproduction - Class 12 NCERT Notes
Introduction to Human Reproduction
Reproduction in humans is a vital process that ensures the continuation of the species. It involves
the fusion of male and female gametes to form a zygote, which eventually develops into a new
individual.
Male Reproductive System
1. Testes: The primary male reproductive organs that produce sperm and secrete male sex
hormones.
2. Accessory ducts:
- Epididymis: A long, coiled tube that stores sperm and transports it from the testes.
- Vas deferens: A muscular tube that carries sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory ducts.
- Ejaculatory duct: Transports sperm to the urethra.
- Urethra: The tube that carries sperm out of the body through the penis.
3. Accessory glands:
- Seminal vesicles: Produce a fluid that forms part of the semen.
- Prostate gland: Produces a fluid that nourishes and protects sperm.
- Bulbourethral glands: Produce a fluid that lubricates the urethra.
4. Penis: The male external genital organ used for sexual intercourse.
Female Reproductive System
1. Ovaries: The primary female reproductive organs that produce eggs and secrete female sex
hormones.
2. Fallopian tubes (Oviducts): Tubes that carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.
3. Uterus: A muscular organ where the fertilized egg implants and develops into a fetus.
4. Vagina: The canal that leads from the cervix of the uterus to the external genitals.
5. External genitalia: Includes structures such as the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening.
6. Mammary glands: Glands that produce milk to nourish a newborn.
Gametogenesis
1. Spermatogenesis: The process of sperm production in males that occurs in the testes.
2. Oogenesis: The process of egg production in females that occurs in the ovaries.
Differences between Spermatogenesis and Oogenesis:
- Spermatogenesis results in four viable sperm cells from each primary spermatocyte, whereas
oogenesis results in one viable egg and three polar bodies from each primary oocyte.
Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is a series of natural changes in hormone production and the structures of the
uterus and ovaries of the female reproductive system that makes pregnancy possible.
Phases of the Menstrual Cycle:
1. Menstrual phase: Shedding of the uterine lining.
2. Follicular phase: Follicle development and preparation for ovulation.
3. Ovulatory phase: Release of an egg from the ovary.
4. Luteal phase: Preparation of the uterine lining for potential pregnancy.
Hormonal regulation involves estrogen, progesterone, LH, and FSH.
Fertilization
Fertilization occurs when a sperm cell successfully penetrates an egg cell, leading to the formation
of a zygote. This usually occurs in the fallopian tube. The zygote undergoes cleavage to form a
blastocyst, which implants in the uterine wall.
Embryonic Development
After fertilization, the zygote undergoes rapid cell division (cleavage) to form a blastocyst. This
blastocyst then implants in the uterine wall. The process of gastrulation follows, forming three germ
layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. These layers give rise to different tissues and organs
in the body (organogenesis).
Pregnancy and Placenta
Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters. The placenta, an organ that forms during pregnancy, acts
as the interface between the mother and fetus, providing oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and
removing waste products.
Parturition
Parturition, or childbirth, is the process of delivering the baby from the uterus. It is hormonally
regulated by oxytocin, which stimulates uterine contractions.
Lactation
Lactation is the production and secretion of milk by the mammary glands. It is regulated by prolactin
and oxytocin. Breastfeeding provides essential nutrients and antibodies to the newborn.
Contraception and Reproductive Health
Contraceptive methods are used to prevent unwanted pregnancies and manage reproductive
health. These include barrier methods, hormonal methods, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and surgical
methods. Reproductive health is crucial for ensuring the well-being of individuals and society.

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Human Reproduction - Class 12 NCERT Notes

Introduction to Human Reproduction

Male Reproductive System

- Ejaculatory duct: Transports sperm to the urethra.

- Seminal vesicles: Produce a fluid that forms part of the semen.

- Prostate gland: Produces a fluid that nourishes and protects sperm.

- Bulbourethral glands: Produce a fluid that lubricates the urethra.

Female Reproductive System

6. Mammary glands: Glands that produce milk to nourish a newborn.

Differences between Spermatogenesis and Oogenesis:

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle:

1. Menstrual phase: Shedding of the uterine lining.

2. Follicular phase: Follicle development and preparation for ovulation.

3. Ovulatory phase: Release of an egg from the ovary.

4. Luteal phase: Preparation of the uterine lining for potential pregnancy.

Hormonal regulation involves estrogen, progesterone, LH, and FSH.

blastocyst, which implants in the uterine wall.

in the body (organogenesis).

Pregnancy and Placenta

removing waste products.

regulated by oxytocin, which stimulates uterine contractions.

Contraception and Reproductive Health

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