The reproductive system
The reproductive system is the group of organs that lets humans produce offspring. Males and females have different reproductive systems, and each makes a special sex cell.
Male reproductive system
The male system produces the male sex cell, called the sperm. Its main parts are:
- Testis — produces sperm.
- Sperm duct — carries sperm from the testis.
- Penis — passes sperm out of the body.
Female reproductive system
The female system produces the female sex cell, called the ovum (egg). Its main parts are:
- Ovary — produces the ovum.
- Oviduct — carries the ovum toward the uterus; fertilisation happens here.
- Uterus (womb) — where a baby grows and develops.
- Vagina — the opening that connects to the uterus.
Key idea
Testis makes sperm; ovary makes the ovum. When sperm and ovum join, a new life can begin, and the baby grows in the uterus.
Example
The ovum released from an ovary travels into the oviduct. If a sperm reaches it there, fertilisation takes place, and the fertilised cell moves to the uterus to grow.
Remember
- Male sex cell = sperm; made in the testis.
- Female sex cell = ovum; made in the ovary.
- A baby grows in the uterus.