SSC CGL - Detailed Guide 2025
Self-Paced Course
Reproductive System
Reference: Lucent GK, NCERT Class 6–12
Reproduction is the biological process by which new individuals of the same species are produced. Humans reproduce sexually through male and female reproductive systems.
Male and Female Reproductive Organs
Male Reproductive System
| Organ | Function |
|---|---|
| Testes | Produce sperm and male hormone testosterone |
| Scrotum | Pouch holding testes; maintains temperature lower than body temperature |
| Epididymis | Stores and matures sperm |
| Vas deferens | Transports sperm from epididymis to urethra |
| Seminal vesicles | Secrete fluid rich in fructose; nourishes sperm |
| Prostate gland | Adds alkaline fluid to semen; enhances sperm motility |
| Urethra | Common duct for urine and semen |
| Penis | External organ; transfers semen into female reproductive tract |
Sperm: Microscopic, motile male gamete; contains head (with nucleus), midpiece (with mitochondria), and tail (for movement).
Female Reproductive System
| Organ | Function |
|---|---|
| Ovaries | Produce ova (eggs) and female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) |
| Fallopian Tubes | Site of fertilization; transport ovum to uterus |
| Uterus | Muscular organ; supports fetal development |
| Cervix | Opening of uterus to vagina |
| Vagina | Receives sperm; birth canal |
Egg (Ovum): Non-motile, large cell with stored nutrients; released once a month during ovulation.
Fertilization, Menstrual Cycle, Contraception (Basics)
Fertilization
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Description | Fusion of male (sperm) and female (ovum) gametes |
| Location | Occurs in fallopian tube |
| Result | Formation of zygote (diploid cell) |
| Implantation | Zygote divides to form embryo, which implants in uterus wall |
Sex is determined at fertilization:Sperm carries X or Y chromosome, egg always carries X.⟶ XX = Female, XY = Male
Menstrual Cycle
| Phase | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Menstrual Phase | Day 1–5 | Shedding of uterine lining with blood |
| Follicular Phase | Day 6–13 | Maturation of follicle and egg; estrogen rises |
| Ovulation | Day 14 | Release of mature egg from ovary |
| Luteal Phase | Day 15–28 | Uterus prepares for implantation; progesterone rises |
| No fertilization | End of cycle | Hormone levels drop; menstruation starts again |
Normal cycle duration: 28 days (may vary)
Contraception (Basics)
Methods to prevent pregnancy by stopping fertilization, ovulation, or implantation
| Type | Method/Example | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Barrier | Condoms, diaphragms | Prevent sperm from reaching egg |
| Hormonal | Pills, patches, injections | Prevent ovulation |
| Intrauterine Device (IUD) | Copper-T | Prevent implantation |
| Surgical | Vasectomy (male), Tubectomy (female) | Cut reproductive ducts permanently |
| Natural | Rhythm method, withdrawal | Avoid intercourse during ovulation |
Condoms also prevent STDs (HIV, gonorrhea, etc.).
Emergency contraceptive pills work after unprotected intercourse.
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