The human reproductive system is a high-yield topic across GCSE, A-Level and AP Biology, and this deck of 20 flashcards covers it from anatomy through to pregnancy. You'll work through the structure and function of the male and female reproductive organs, the...
The human reproductive system is a high-yield topic across GCSE, A-Level and AP Biology, and this deck of 20 flashcards covers it from anatomy through to pregnancy. You'll work through the structure and function of the male and female reproductive organs, the hormonal control of the menstrual cycle (FSH, LH, oestrogen and progesterone), and the process of fertilisation in the fallopian tube. From there, cards move into implantation, the role of the placenta and umbilical cord, the three trimesters of pregnancy, and the hormonal triggers of labour. A few cards also cover common exam curveballs like identical versus fraternal twins and the biology of menopause. Written for clarity rather than jargon, these flashcards use active recall to help you retain the sequence of reproductive processes and the vocabulary examiners expect to see in your answers.
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The testes, which produce sperm and testosterone, along with the epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate gland and penis.
The ovaries (produce eggs and hormones), fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix and vagina.
The continuous production of sperm cells in the seminiferous tubules of the testes, beginning at puberty.
The production of egg cells (ova) in the ovaries, largely completed before birth with maturation occurring monthly after puberty.
A surge in luteinising hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland triggers the release of a mature egg from the ovary.
Follicle-stimulating hormone stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles.
It thickens the uterine lining (endometrium), triggers the LH surge for ovulation, and inhibits FSH.
Maintains the uterine lining to support a potential pregnancy; levels drop sharply if fertilisation doesn't occur, triggering menstruation.
The follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase, typically spanning about 28 days.
In the fallopian tube, usually within 24 hours of ovulation.
The attachment of the fertilised egg (blastocyst) to the uterine lining, occurring about 6–10 days after fertilisation.
Exchanges oxygen, nutrients and waste between mother and foetus, and produces pregnancy-supporting hormones like hCG and progesterone.
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), produced by the developing placenta shortly after implantation.
A fluid-filled membrane surrounding the foetus that cushions it against impact and helps regulate temperature.
First (weeks 1–12): organ formation. Second (13–26): rapid growth. Third (27–birth): weight gain and organ maturation.
The structure connecting the foetus to the placenta, containing blood vessels that transport oxygen, nutrients and waste.
A combination of hormonal changes, including rising oxytocin and prostaglandins, which stimulate uterine contractions.
Identical twins develop from one fertilised egg that splits (sharing DNA); fraternal twins develop from two separately fertilised eggs (like regular siblings).
The natural cessation of menstruation and fertility, typically occurring between ages 45–55, due to declining ovarian hormone production.
A cap containing enzymes that help the sperm penetrate the egg's outer layers during fertilisation.
