3 HUMAN

REPRODUCTION

Introduction  Male gamete: Spermatozoan.

 Female gamete: Ovum.
Reproduction: Reproduction means the ability to
Table: Primary and Secondary sex organs in male and
produce individuals of the same species.
female
Reproductive events in humans
1. Gametogenesis: Formation of gametes, i.e., Primary Accessory or
Secondary Sex
sperms in male and ovum in female. Sex Sex external Sex
Organ
2. Insemination: Transfer of sperms into the female Organ character
genital tract. Male Testis Prostate, Low - pitch
3. Fertilisation: Fusion of male and female gametes seminal voice,
leading to the formation of zygote. vesicle, vas beard, broad
4. Implantation: Attachment of blastocyst to the deferens, shoulder,
uterine wall for nourishment. epididymis, narrow hips
5. Gestation: Embryonic development. penis
6. Parturition: Delivery of the baby. Female Ovary Fallopian High - pitch
tubes, uterus, voice, smooth
Reproductive System vagina, face, narrow
mammary shoulder,
 The formation of gametes takes place in the glands broad hips
reproductive organs.

Male Reproductive System

In adults, each testis is oval in shape, with a length of about 4 to 5cm and a width of about 2 to 3cm.
Testis
(Situated outside the abdominal cavity within a pouch called scrotum)
Consists of

Testicular lobules (250 compartments each)

Consists of Seminiferous tubules (1-3 in each
In interstitial spaces
lobule, highly coiled)

Other immunologically
Interstitial cells or competent cells Male germ cells Sertoli cells
Small blood (Spermatogonia)
vessels Leydig cells (phagocytic cells)
Meiosis Provide nutrition to
germ cells
Secrete testicular hormones
(Androgens) Sperms (Spermatogonia)
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ŒŒ Vas deferens receive a duct from seminal vesicle

and opens into urethra as ejaculatory duct.
ŒŒ The urethra originates from the urinary bladder
and extends through the penis to its external
opening called urethral meatus.
ŒŒ Penis is made up of special tissue that helps in
erection of the penis to facilitate insemination.

Male accessory glands

Fig.: Diagrammatic view of male reproductive system Male accessory sex glands

Male sex accessory ducts Seminal vesicle Prostate Bulbourethral gland

(or cowper's gland)
Rete testes (inside the testis)
Seminal plasma also
Vasa efferentia (Leaving the testis) (Contents - Fructose, Helps in lubrication
Prostaglandin, citric acid, of Penis
Epididymis (Outside of testis)
Ca++ and certain enzymes)
Vas deferens (Leaving the scrotal sac
and enter into abdominal cavity)  Maximise Your Marks

The fructose, present in the seminal fluid, is a

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The temperature in scrotum is 2 to 2.5°C below

the temperature of abdominal cavity because
 NCERT Fill-up
maturation of sperm needs low temperature. ŒŒ ___________ acts at the leydig cells and stimulates
synthesis and secretion of ___________
Pathway of transport of sperms ŒŒ The functions of male sex accessory ducts and
glands are maintained by the ___________.
Seminiferous tubules ŒŒ Scrotum helps in maintaining the low
temperature of the testes about ___________
↓
Rete testis which maintains the temperature of testes
___________ than the normal body temperature
↓
necessary for process known as ___________
Vasa efferentia
↓ ŒŒ The male reproductive system is located in the
___________ region in humans.
Epididymis (Located along the posterior surface of
each testis) ŒŒ The testes are situated outside the male
abdominal cavity within a pouch called
↓
Vas deferens (Ascends to the abdomen and loops ___________
over the urinary bladder) ŒŒ In testes, ___________ cells provide nutrition to
the germ cells.
ŒŒ The male sex accessory ducts include
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___________ and vas deferens.
ŒŒ Sperms achieve maturity and motility in ŒŒ The enlarged end of penis called ___________
epididymis. is covered by a loose fold of skin called
ŒŒ Epididymis can temporarily stores the sperms. ___________.

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 Uterus
Female Reproductive System
Uterus
Female Reproductive System
(Single, also called womb)
Ovary Female accessory Cervix External genitalia
Shape-Inverted Supported by ligaments
glands pear attached to the pelvic wall
Ovarian hormones Mons pubis
(Several steroid
hormones) Fallopian tubes Uterus Vagina Labia majora Wall of uterus
Produce female (Oviducts) Labia minora External thin Middle thick layer Inner glandular
gamete (ovum) layer
Hymen membranous of smooth muscels
Infundibulum Ampulla Isthmus
(Funnel-shaped) (Narrow tube) Clitoris
Wider part
Perimetrium Myometrium Endometrium
Part closer to of oviduct Joins the
uterus
ovary Exhibits strong Lines the Cyclical
Ampullary contraction during uterine changes during
isthmus junction delivery of baby cavity menstrual
(Fertilisation site)
cycle

Hormonal Control of Female

Reproductive System
 Ovary is regulated by pituitary gonadotropins or GnRH.
Hypothalamus

Human Reproduction
GnRH
Anterior pituitary
Fig.: Diagrammatic sectional view of the female
reproductive system LH or ICSH FSH
acts on acts on
 Each ovary is covered by a thin epithelium which Leydig's cells Setoli cells
encloses the ovarian stroma. SecretesStimulates
 Stroma is divided into two zones- a peripheral Androgen Secretion of some
cortex and an inner medulla (Testosterone) factors which help
Stimulate in the process of
Spermato spermiogenesis
genesis

Hypothalamus
GnRH
Positive Anterior pituitary Negative
feedback LH/FSH feedback
Ovary

Fig.: Diagrammatic sectional view of ovary

Estrogen
and progesterone
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Fig.: Hormonal control of female reproductive system
The edges of the infundibulum possess finger-
like projections called fimbriae, which help in  At the end of pregnancy, the corpus luteum
secretes relaxin which broadens the pelvis for easy
collection of the ovum after ovulation. parturition.

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  NCERT Fill-up  After spermiogenesis, sperm heads become
embedded in the sertoli cells, and are finally
ŒŒ Which of the following is not a part of female released from the seminiferous tubules by the
reproductive system? Ovary, oviduct, uterus, process called spermiation.
vas deferens, hymen ___________
Structure of Sperm
ŒŒ Ovaries are the ___________ female sex organs.
 Sperm is a microscopic structure composed of four
ŒŒ Ovaries produce the ___________ and several
___________ hormones. parts, i.e., head, neck, middle piece and tail.
ŒŒ The ovarian stroma is divided into two
zones–a peripheral ___________ and an inner
___________.
ŒŒ Which help in collection of ovum after
ovulation? ___________
ŒŒ Each fallopian tube is about ___________ long.
It has three parts: funnel-shaped ___________,
wider part ___________ and last part
___________.
ŒŒ The shape of the uterus is like ___________.
ŒŒ The cavity of cervix is called ___________,
which along with ___________ forms birth
canal.

Gametogenesis
Most Wanted

 Gametogenesis is the process of gamete (sperm or

egg) formation.
 It include spermatogenesis and oogenesis.
Spermatogenesis
 Spermatogenesis results in the formation of sperms
that are transported by the male sex accessory
ducts.
 Spermiogenesis begins in the seminiferous tubules Fig.: Structure of a sperm
but usually completed in epididymis.
 The spiral sheath of mitochondria around the
axonema is known as Nebenkern sheath.

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Mitochondria produce energy for the movement

of tail that facilitate sperm motility essential for
fertilisation.

Oogenesis

 The process of formation of a mature female

gamete is called oogenesis.
 Oogonia cells start division and enter into prophase-I
of the meiotic division and get temporarily arrested
Fig.: Schematic representation of spermatogenesis at that stage, called primary oocytes.

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Fig.: Schematic representation of oogenesis
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ŒŒ The secondary oocyte retains bulk of the nutrient
rich cytoplasm of the primary oocyte.
ŒŒ Secondary oocyte complete the secondary
meiotic division only after fertilisation by the
sperm in the fallopian tube. The egg is released
at secondary oocyte stage under the effect of
LH.
 NCERT Fill-up
ŒŒ Spermatogenesis starts at the age of
___________ due to significant increase in the
secretion of ___________.
ŒŒ Which part of sperm produce energy for the
movement of tail?___________
ŒŒ The process of spermatogenesis begins at
___________ due to significant increase in
___________
ŒŒ A spermatogonia is a ___________ cell
containing ___________ chromosomes.
ŒŒ The seminal plasma along with the sperms
constitute ___________.
ŒŒ The process of formation of a mature female
gamete is called ___________
ŒŒ Oogonia start division and get temporarily
arrested at ___________ stage of meiotic
division and are called ___________.
ŒŒ The primary follicles get surrounded by more
layers of granulosa cells and a new theca and
are called ___________
ŒŒ At puberty, ___________ primary follicles are
left in each ovary in a human female.
ŒŒ During oogenesis, tertiary follicle is
characterized by a fluid filled cavity called
___________
ŒŒ During oogenesis, secondary oocyte forms a new
membrane called ___________ surrounding it.
After this, Graafian follicle ruptures to release
secondary oocyte from ovary by the process
called ___________
ŒŒ During spermatogenesis, the secondary
spermatocytes undergo second meiotic division
to produce four equal haploid ___________
which are transformed into spermatozoa by the
process ___________
Menstrual Cycle
Human Reproduction
 Menstrual cycle is the cyclic changes in the
reproductive tract of primate females (e.g.,
monkeys, apes and human beings)
 Menstruation is the periodic shedding of the
endometrium of the uterus with bleeding.
 In healthy women, menstruation occurs at an
average interval of about 28/29 days.
 Menarche is the beginning of menstruation in girls
at about 13 years (at puberty).
 Menstrual cycle consists of three phases, i.e.,
menstrual phase, proliferative phase (follicular
phase) and secretory phase (luteal phase).
(i) Menstrual Phase:
 The cycle starts with menstrual phase in its first 3
to 5 days.
 During this, the part of the layer of endometrium
gets shed off.
 The menstrual flow results due to breakdown of
endometrial lining of the uterus and its blood
vessels which forms liquid that comes out through
vagina.
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Menstruation only occurs if the released ouvm

is not fertilised. Lack of menstruation may be
indicative of pregnancy. However, it may also be
caused due to some other underlying causes like
stress, poor health, etc.

(ii) Preovulatory/Proliferative phase:

 During this phase, due to release of some GnRH,

pituitary secretes some FSH to stimulate the
ovarian follicle.
 The ovarian follicle now begins to develop.
Developing follicle now starts secreting an
increasing amount of estrogen.
 The rising level of estrogen causes the
endometrium to proliferate and thicken. It also Fig.: Diagrammatic presentation of various events
causes increase in the vascularity and glandularity during a menstrual cycle
of the endometrium. (iii) Post ovulatory/secretory phase:
 Due to this, the hypothalamus releases more of  After ovulation, the ruptured Graafian follicle
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GnRH. This GnRH induces the pituitary to release
more of FSH. The rising FSH levels results in:
(a) Further growth and development of ovarian
follicle to form Graafian follicle
transforms into corpus luteum. The granulosa and
theca cells of the ruptured Graafian follicle (which
is now called as corpus luteum) is found only in
mammals and contain a yellow lutein or carotene
pigment.

(b) Even further release of estrogen from the theca  Maximise Your Marks

interna of this developing follicle.
 As the estrogen level goes on rising, by the end of
10th day the extreme levels of estrogen (which have
by then caused maturation of Graafian follicle and
growth of endometrium) gives a positive feedback
of high concentration of estrogen causing a rise
 During pregnancy, all events of the menstrual cycle
in GnRH and LH secretion but due to release of
inhibin by Graafian follicle.
 FSH is not comparatively rised therefore the LH
secretion from the pituitary goes on rising. This
abrupt rise (on 11th to 13th day) in LH concentration
in blood is called as LH surge.
 Increased concentration of LH causes the Graafian
follicle to rupture thereby the release of ovum. The
release of egg (secondary oocyte) which occurs
around 14th day is called as ovulation.
The corpus luteum secretes large amounts of
progesterone which is essential for maintenance
of the endometrium. Such an endometrium is
necessary for implantation of the fertilised ovum
and other events of pregnancy.
stop and there is no menstruation. In the absence
of fertilisation, the corpus luteum degenerates. This
causes disintegration of the endometrium leading
to menstruation, marking a new cycle.
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ŒŒ In human beings, menstrual cycles ceases around
50 years of age; that is termed as menopause.
ŒŒ Cyclic menstruation is an indicator of normal
reproductive phase and extends between
menarche and menopause.

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 Hypothalamus

GnRH stimulates Anterior

release of FSH and LH pituitary gland

FSH stimulates
LH stimulates
Growing
follicles
Ovaries
Ovulation Corpus luteum
Initial development of
ovarian follicles Further development of ovarian Secretion of progesterone, estrogens,
follicles and their secretion of relaxin and inhibin by corpus luteum
estrogens and inhibin

Estrogens Progesterone Relaxin Inhibin

ŒŒ Promote development and ŒŒ Works with estrogens ŒŒ Inhibits contractions ŒŒ Inhibits release of
maintenance of female to prepare endometrium of uterine smooth FSH and to a lesser
reproductive structures, for implantation muscle extent, LH
feminine secondary sex ŒŒ Prepares mammary ŒŒ During labor,

Human Reproduction
characteristics, and breasts glands to secrete milk increases flexibility of
ŒŒ Increase protein anabolism ŒŒ Inhibits release of pubic symphysis and
ŒŒ Lower blood cholesterol GnRH and LH dilates uterine cervix
ŒŒ Moderate levels inhibit
release of GnRH, FSH, and
LH

 NCERT Fill-up ŒŒ During follicular phase of menstrual cycle, the

ŒŒ The ___________ undergoes cyclical changes
during menstrual cycle while the ___________
exhibits strong contraction during delivery of
the baby.
ŒŒ The graafian follicle ruptures to release the
___________ from the ovary by the process
called ___________
ŒŒ The first menstruation begins at ___________
and is called ___________
ŒŒ The menstrual flow results due to breakdown of
___________
ŒŒ The menstrual phase is followed by the which
phase? ___________
ŒŒ Which hormone is essential for maintenance of
endometrium? ___________
ŒŒ During follicular phase of menstrual cycle, the
___________ follicles in the ovary grow to
become a fully mature ___________ follicle
and simultaneously endometrium of uterus
regenerates through proliferation.
secretion of gonadotropins increases gradually
and stimulates follicular development as well as
secretion of ___________ by growing follicles.
ŒŒ Both LH and FSH attain a peak in ___________
of cycle at about ___________ day in a female
with menstrual cycle of 28 days.
ŒŒ At the middle of menstrual cycle ___________
induces rupture of graafian follicle and thereby
the release of ovum.
Fertilisation and Implantation
 The process of fusion of a sperm with an ovum to
form a diploid cell is called fertilisation.
 Fertilisation activates the secondary oocyte cell to
complete the division.
 It normally occurs when sperm and egg interact in
the upper part of the oviduct (ampulla).
 During fertilisation, a sperm comes in contact with
ovum (zona pellucida layer) and induces changes

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 in the membrane that block the entry of additional
Blastomere
sperms. Thus, it ensures that only one sperm can
fertilise an ovum.
Trophoblast Inner cell mass
(outer layer) (inner group of
cells attached to
trophoblast)
Attached to
endometrium
Results Differentiated as
embryo
Uterine cells
divide and covers
the blastocyst
Fig.: Ovum surrounded by few sperms
 The secretions of the acrosome help the sperm
enter into the cytoplasm of the ovum through the Blastocyst embedded in
zona pellucida and the plasma membrane. This endometrium of uterus
induces the completion of the meiotic division of
the secondary oocyte. Implantation
 The second meiotic division is also unequal and Leads to
results in the formation of a second polar body and Pregnancy
haploid ovum (ootid). Soon the haploid nucleus of
the sperms and that of the ovum fuse together to  After implantation, finger-like projections appear
form a diploid zygote. on the trophoblast called chorionic villi which are
surrounded by the uterine tissue and maternal blood.
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 NCERT Fill-up
Most Wanted

Fertilisation can only occur if the ovum and sperms

are transported simultaneously to the ampullary-
isthmic junction. This is the reason why not all
copulations lead to fertilisation and pregnancy.
 Cleavage is the mitotic division of the zygote unit
moving through the isthmus of the oviduct towards
the uterus and forms 2, 4, 8, 16 daughter cells
called blastomeres.
 Implantation occurs generally between 6th to 9th
day after fertilisation. The site of implantation
determines the portion of placenta.
ŒŒ The ___________ division starts as the zygote
moves through the isthmus of the oviduct called
___________.
ŒŒ The embryo with 8 to 16 blastomeres is called
___________
ŒŒ The blastomeres in the blastocyst are arranged
into an outer layer called ___________ and
an inner group of cells attached to trophoblast
called ___________.
ŒŒ The initial mitotic divisions of zygote are called
___________ and starts as the zygote moves
towards uterus and forms 2, 4, 8, 16, daughter
cells called the ___________

Pregnancy and Embryonic

Development
After implantation
Chorionic villi + uterine tissue (endometrium) =
Placenta (Structural and functional unit between
developing embryo and maternal body)
Functions
1. Respiration (supply of oxygen and removal of
Fig.: Transport of ovum, fertilisation and passage of carbon dioxide), excertion and nutrient medium
growing embryo through fallopian tube (provide nutrients to the embryo.)

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2. Also acts as an endocrine tissue - Produces hCG,
hPL, Estrogen, Progestogen, relaxin, etc.
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hCG, hPL and relaxin are produced in women only
during pregnancy.
 During pregnancy, the increased levels of other
hormones like estrogens, progestogens, cortisol,
prolactin, thyroxine, etc., are essential for
supporting the foetal growth, metabolic changes in
the mother and maintenance of pregnancy.
Fig.: The human foetus within the uterus
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The inner cell mass contains certain cells called
stem cells which have the potency to give rise to
all the tissues and organs.
Embryonic development
During pregnancy, stages of development of the foetus
a re given below:
 First month - Heart beating (First sign of growing
foetus)
 End of second month - Limbs and digits
development
 End of 12 weeks (First trimester) - Most of the
major organ systems are formed, e.g., limbs &
external genital organs are well developed.
 5th month - First movements of foetus and
appearance of scalp of hairs
 End of 24 weeks (End of second trimester) - Fine
body hairs, eyelids separated and eye lashes formed
 End of 9 month - Fully developed foetus and ready
for delivery.
 NCERT Fill-up
ŒŒ Some finger like projection appear on the
trophoblast called ___________
ŒŒ The structural and functional unit between
developing embryo and maternal body called
___________
ŒŒ The placenta is connected to the embryo through
an ___________
ŒŒ Placenta acts as endocrine tissue as it
produces hormones like ___________ , hPL,
___________ , progestogens, etc.
ŒŒ In later phase of pregnancy, a hormone called
___________ is secreted by ovary.
ŒŒ By the end of ___________ month, foetus
develops limbs and digits and by the end of
___________ trimester, most of major organ
systems are formed.
ŒŒ The average duration of human pregnancy is
about ___________ months which is called
___________
Human Reproduction
Parturition And Lactation
 The average duration of human pregnancy is about
9 months which is called the gestation period.
Delivery of foetus (childbirth) → Parturition
↓
Induced by a complex neuroendocrine mechanism
Fully developed foetus or mature placenta (Signals for
parturition)
↓
Mild uterine contractions (Foetal ejection reflex)
↓
Triggers release of oxytocin (maternal pituitary)
↓
Causer stronger uterine contractions
↓
Relaxin released by ruptured placenta
↓
Stimulatory reflex b/w uterine contraction and
oxytocin secretion continue resulting in stronger &
stronger contractions
↓
Expulsion of the baby out of uterus through birth
canal
↓
Baby delivered
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  Maximise Your Marks
ŒŒ The milk produced during the initial few
days of lactation is called colostrum which
contains several antibodies absolutely
essential to develop resistance for the new-
born babies.
ŒŒ The signals for parturition originate from the
fully developed foetus and the placenta which
induce mild uterine contractions called foetal
ejection reflex.
ŒŒ Mammary glands differentiate during pregnancy
and secrete milk after child-birth
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 NCERT Fill-up
ŒŒ Which hormone acts on the uterine muscle and
stronger uterine contractions ___________
ŒŒ The milk produced during the initial few days of
lactation is called ___________
ŒŒ Parturition is induced by a complex ___________
mechanism. The signals for parturition originate
from ___________ and ___________which
induces mild uterine contractions called
___________ reflex.
ŒŒ ___________ hormone acts on the uterine
muscles and causes stronger uterine contractions.
ŒŒ The milk produced during the initial few days of
lactation is called ___________which contains
several antibodies.
 NEET Replica
Fact Based Questions
1. Which is correct sequence of male accessory
ducts starting from testis?
a. Rete testis, vasa efferentia, epididymis, vas
deferens
b. Rete testis, vasa efferentia, vas deferens,
epididymis
c. Rete testis, vas deferens, epididymis, vasa
efferentia
d. Rete testis, vas deferens, vasa efferentia,
epididymis
2. Common duct formed by the union of vas deferens
and duct of seminal vesicle is
a. Urethra b. Urethral meatus
c. Ejaculatory duct d. Spermatic duct
3. The role of Leydig or interstitial cells is
a. Nourishment to sperms
b. Give motility to sperms
c. Synthesize testosterone hormone
d. All of the above
4. What is the location and function of sertoli cells?
a. Interstitial connective tissue; secrete and-
-rogens
b. Testicular lobules, secrete progesterone
c. Seminiferous tubules; nourish spermatozoa
d. Seminal vesicle; secrete prostatic fluid
5. Vasa efferentia exist in between:
a. Seminiferous tubule and rete testis
b. Epididymis and vas deferentia
c. Urethra and ejaculatory duct
d. Rete testis and epididymis
6. In humans, the male accessory glands secrete
seminal plasma which is rich in:
a. Fructose + Calcium + No enzymes
b. Fructose + Calcium + Certain enzymes
c. Sucrose + Calcium + Much more enzymes
d. Sucrose + Calcium + Certain enzymes
7. The part of the fallopian tube which is closer to
the ovary possess finger like projections called
a. Infundibulum b. Isthmus
c. Ampulla d. Fimbriae
8. Which of the following induces foetal ejection
reflex?
a. Initiation of lactation
b. Fully developed foetus and placenta
c. Expulsion of the baby out of the uterus
d. Transport of embryo in the fallopian tube
9. The primary function of mammalian corpus
luteum is to synthesise:
a. Relaxin only
b. Estrogen only
c. Progesterone
d. Human chorionic gonadotropin
10. Secretion of which gland has high percentage of
fructose?
a. Prostate gland b. Cowper’s gland
c. Seminal vesicle d. Ovaries
11. Capacitation refers to the physiological changes
undergo in order for the
a. Preparation of ovary after fertilisation
b. Preparation of ovary before fertilisation
c. Preparation of sperm after fertilisation
d. Preparation of sperm before fertilisation
12. An important factor contributing to the onset and
maintenance of labour contractions is
a. Increased contractility of the uterine muscles
from increased oxytocin levels
b. Mechanical pressure on the cervix generated
by the emerging baby’s head
c. Stretching of the uterus during the final stages
of foetal growth
d. All of the above
13. Which of the following hormone is not produced
by placenta ?
a. hCG b. hPL
c. Estrogen d. MSH
 14. Arrange the events in human female reproductive
cycle.
A. Secretion of FSH
B. Growth of corpus luteum
C. Growth of follicle and oogenesis
D. Ovulation
E. Sudden increase in levels of L.H
a. A - C - E - D - B b. C - A - D - B - E
c. A - D - C - E - B d. B - A - C - D - E
15. Which of the following best represents the normal
path of a sperm cell as makes its way from the
point of entry into the female’s reproductive tract
to the place where fertilisation typically occurs?
a. Cervix, vagina, ovary, oviduct
b. Vagina, cervix, uterus, oviduct
c. Uterus, cervix, vagina, oviduct
d. Vagina, uterus, cervix, oviduct
16. In human beings, at which month of pregnancy,
foetal movement and appearance of hair on head
can be observed?
a. 5th month b. 1st trimester
Most Wanted
c. 2nd trimester d. 4th month
17. In spermatogenesis, the phase of maturation
involves
a. Growth of spermatogonia into spermatocytes
b. Formation of spermatogonia from gonocytes
through mitosis
c. Formation of spermatogonia from primary
spermatocytes through meiosis
d. Formation of oogonia from spermatocytes
through meiosis
18. Which of the following indicated pregnancy?
a. Lack of menstruation
b. Occurrence of menstrual flow
c. Released ovum is not fertilized
d. Graafian follicle matures and endometrium
regenerates through proliferation
19. Which of the following is the first change that
occurs to the zygote after fertilisation?
a. It divides to form a hollow ball of cells called
the blastocyst.
b. It begins to secrete the hormones.
c. It contracts the endometrial wall of the uterus
and becomes buried inside it.
d. It initiates the formation of a placenta.
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20. Which of the following leads to the initiation of
menstrual cycle?
a. A sudden release of FSH from the anterior
pituitary.
b. A decrease in estrogen and progesterone due to
degeneration of the corpus luteum.
c. An increased release of estrogen and
progesterone from the corpus luteum.
d. A sudden drop in LH.
21. Which of the following event does not occurs
during the phase that takes place from day 15 to
29 in menstrual cycle?
a. Tranformation of the remaining parts of the
Graafian follicle into corpus luteum
b. Release of progesterone
c. Rapid secretion of LH and FSH
d. Thickening of endometrium
22. What is the ploidy level of spermatogonia,
primary spermatocyte, primary polar body and
spermatid?
a. Diploid, diploid, haploid, haploid
b. Diploid, haploid, haploid, diploid
c. Haploid, haploid, diploid, haploid
d. Haploid, diploid, haploid, diploid
Image Based Questions
23. Read the following statements about the given
diagram carefully and state which of them are
correct?
(i) A carries urine.
(ii) B secretes a fluid that helps in the lubrication
of penis.
(iii) D produces testosterone but not sperms.
(iv) C stores sperms.
a. (i) and (ii) b. (ii) and (iii)
c. (ii) and (iv) d. (i) and (iv)
 24. Identity spermatogonium and Sertoli cells
Match The Column
respectively
27. Match the columns and find out the correct
combination:
A. Mons 1. Fleshy folds of tissue
pubis
B. Labia 2. Cushion of fatty tissue covered
majora by skin and pubic hair
C. Labia 3. Membrane partially covering
minora the opening of vagina
D. Hymen 4. Paired folds of tissue under
the labia majora

a. A-1 B-2 C-3 D-4

a. F and B b. A and C b. A-2 B-1 C-4 D-3
c. D and E d. F and E c. A-3 B-1 C-2 D-4
d. A-3 B-4 C-1 D-2
25. In which of the following embryonic stages does
the implantation take place? 28. Which is correctly matched ?
a. Menstruation - Breakdown of myometrium
and ovum not fertilised

Human Reproduction
a. b.
b. Ovulation - LH and FSH attain peak level,
sharp fall in secretion of progesterone
c. Development of corpus luteum - Secretory
phase and increased secretion of progesterone
c. d. d. Proliferative phase - Rapid regeneration
of myometrium and maturation of Graafian
follicle.
26. The accompanying diagram shows the changes 29. Match the columns and find out the correct
that take place in the endometrium during a combination:
normal menstrual cycle. Identify the changes and A. FSH 1. Maintenance of
select the correct option. endometrium
B. LH 2. Develops female
secondary sexual
characters
C. Progesterone 3. Contraction of uterine
wall
D. Estrogen 4. Development of primary
follicle
5. Rupture of Graafian
follicle
Ovulation Mensturation
a. A B a. A-4 B-5 C-2 D-1
b. A C b. A-4 B-5 C-1 D-2
c. C A c. A-4 B-3 C-2 D-5
d. B D d. A-5 B-1 C-2 D-4

13
 30. Identify the mismatch related to the human female
reproductive events:
a. Transfer of sperms into female genital tract -
Insemination
b. Development of blastocyst and its attachment
to the uterine wall – Implantation
c. Embryonic development – Gestation
d. Delivery of the baby – Lactation
31. Which one of the following events is correctly
matched with the time period in a normal
menstrual cycle?
a. Release of egg: 5th day
b. Endometrium regenerates: 5 – 10 days
c. Endometrium secretes nutrients for implanta-
tion: 11 – 18 days
d. Rise in progesterone level: 1 – 15 days
Conceptual Based Questions
32. In male reproductive system if
A = Seminiferous tubule, B = vasa efferentia,
C = Rete testis, D = Epididymis,
Most Wanted
E = Urethra, F = Vas deferens
G = Ejaculatory duct, H = Urethral meatus
then what will be the correct pathway of transport
of sperm cells?
a. A → C → B → D → F → G → E → H
b. A → B → C → D → H → F → E → G
c. D → B → C → G → A → E → F → H
d. G → E → H → F → D → A → B → C
33. Read the following statements and choose the
incorrect one.
a. The edges of the infundibulum possess very
small protoplasmic processes called fimbriae
b. Ovaries are the primary female sex organs that
produce the female gamete and several steroid
hormones
c. Secretion of male accessory glands constitute
the seminal plasma
d. Each ovary is covered by a thin epithelium
which encloses the ovarian stroma
34. Which one of the following statements about
human sperm is correct?
a. Acrosome is a pointed structure used for
piercing and penetrating the egg, resulting in
fertilization
14
b. The sperm lysins in the acrosome dissolve the
egg envelope facilitating fertilisation
c. Acrosome serves as sensory structure leading
the sperm towards the ovum.
d. Sperm is viable for only upto 24 hours.
35. All the following statements are correct but one is
wrong. Which one is wrong?
a. The signals for parturition originate from the
fully developed foetus and placenta which will
induce mild uterine contractions called foetal
ejection reflex
b. The first movements of the foetus and
appearance of hair on the head, is usually
observed during fifth month
c. Cleavage is influenced by the quantity and the
pattern of the distribution of yolk in the cell
d. Inhibin is produced by granulosa cells in testes
and inhibits the secretion of LH
36. All of the following are functions of the sertoli
cells in the seminiferous tubules EXCEPT
a. They secrete an androgen-binding protein into
the seminiferous tubule in response to FSH
stimulation.
b. They secrete inhibin, which exerts a negative
feedback effect on the pituitary gland to inhibit
FSH secretion.
c. They secrete mullerian-duct stimulating
hormone during embryonic sexual
differentiation, which results in the
development of the ductus deferens.
d. They provide support for developing
spermatozoa.
37. Spermiogenesis is the transformation of
a. Spermatogonium into primary spermatocyte
b. Spermatogonium into functional spermatozoa
c. Primary spermatocytes into secondary
spermatocytes
d. Spermatids into spermatozoa
38. Select the incorrect statement:
a. FSH stimulates the sertoli cells which help in
spermiogenesis
b. Ovulation in ovary is triggered by LH.
 c. During the follicular phase, LH and FSH 41. Which of the following option correctly describes
decrease gradually the gonadotropin activity in a normal pregnant
d. LH triggers the secretion of androgens from female?
the Leydig cells a. High level of hCG facilitates the endometrium
39. Read the following statements and choose thickening
incorrect one. b. High level of FSH and LH stimulates the
endometrium thickening
a. Embryo at 16 celled stage is known as morula.
c. High level of FSH and LH facilitates the
b. Acrosomal reaction of sperm help in
implantation of the embryo
compatibility check.
d. High level of hCG stimulates the synthesis of
c. In humans, the site of fertilisation is the
estrogen and progesterone
ampulla of the fallopian tube.
42. Read the statements carefully and choose how
d. During entry into the ovum, acrosome of sperm
many statements are correct?
releases hyaluronidase.
A. In an antral follicle, zona pellucida is
40. Read the following statements for testis and
acellular.
choose incorrect one.
a. Both testis has about 250 compartments called B. Meiosis-II is not completed until puberty in
testicular lobules human females.
b. Each testicular lobule contains one to three C. In embryo of mammals, the amnion is derived
straight seminiferous tubules from ectoderm and mesoderm germlayers.

Human Reproduction
c. Each seminiferous tubules is lined on its inside D. Pineal gland is considered as a temporary
by two types of cells called spermatogonia and endocrine gland
sertoli cells. a. Three b. Four
d. Each testis is covered by a dense covering. c. Two d. One

15
 Explanations
1. (a) Correct sequence of male accessory ducts
starting from testis is rete testis, vasa efferentia,
epididymis and vas deferens.
2. (c) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 43
3. (c) Leydig or interstitial cells secrete testosterone
hormone under the influence of LH.
4. (c)
5. (d) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 43
6. (b) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 44
7. (d) The part of the fallopian tube which is closer
to the ovary possess finger like projections
called fimbriae.
8. (b) Fully developed foetus and the placenta induce
foetal ejection reflex. Foetal ejection reflex is
also called mild uterine contraction.
9. (c) Corpus luteum secretes progesterone that
ensures maintenance of the endometrium till
implantation.
Most Wanted
10. (c)
11. (d)
12. (d) Labour is brought on and intensified by all of
these factors.
13. (d) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 53
14. (a) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 50-51
15. (b) A sperm is ejected by the male into the vagina.
From the vagina, the sperm move through the
cervix into the uterus and finally the oviduct
where fertilisation occurs.
16. (a) The first movements of the foetus and
appearance of hair on the head are usually
observed during the fifth month.
17. (a) In spermatogenesis, the phase of maturation
involves growth of spermatogonia into
spermatocytes.
18. (a) During pregnancy, all events of the menstrual
cycle stop and there is no menstruation.
19. (a) The zygote divides mitotically to form 8 and
16 daughter cells called blastomeres. This
stage is called morula which continues to
divide and transforms into blastocyst.
20. (b) A decrease in estrogen and progesterone as the
16
corpus luteum degenerates (in the absence of
pregnancy) initiates menstruation.
21. (c) The secretory phase or luteal phase takes place
from day 15 to 29. All the events mentioned
in options (a), (b) and (d) takes place in luteal
phase. The secretion of LH and FSH occurs
during the follicular phase.
22. (a)
23. (a) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 43, fig. 3.1 (b)
24. (d) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 47, fig. 3.5
25. (a)
This is blastula stage.
26. (c) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 50, fig. 3.9
27. (b)
28. (c) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 50-51
29. (b)
30. (d) Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 42
31. (b)
32. (a) The correct sequence for the transport of
sperm cells in male reproductive system is:
Seminiferous tubule (A) → Rete testis (C)
→ Vasa efferentia (B) →Epididymis (D) →
Vas deferens (F) → Ejaculatory duct (G) →
Urethra (E) → Urethral meatus (H)
33. (a) The edges of the infundibulum possess finger-
like projections called fimbriae, which help in
collection of the ovum after ovulation.
34. (b) Sperm lysins are meant to dissolve egg
envelope facilitating fertilisation.
35. (d) Inhibin is produced by granulosa cells in ovary
and inhibits the secretion of FSH.
36. (c)The sertoli cell mechanically supports
developing sperm and produces androgen-
binding protein, inhibin, and mullerian duct
inhibitor, which causes regression of the
mullerian duct system.
37. (d) The spermatids are transformed into
spermatozoa (sperms) by the process called
spermiogenesis.
 38. (c) The secretion of gonadotropin (LH and FSH)
increases gradually during the follicular phase
and stimulates follicular development as well as
secretion of estrogens by the growing follicles.
39. (c) In humans, site of fertilization is ampullary
isthmus junction.
40. (b) Each lobule contains one to three highly coiled
seminiferous tubules in which sperms are
produced.
41. (d) hCG is secreted by endocrine placenta in
phase of pregnancy. It maintains the lining
of endometrium by synthesis of estrogen &
progesterone after implantation.
42. (b) Statement A and C are correct. In humans
females, meiosis-II is not completed until
fertilisation. Corpus luteum is a temporary
endocrine gland in the body.
Human Reproduction
17
 NEET Past 5 Year Questions
5. Capacitation refers to changes in the: (2015)
Male Reproductive System
a. Ovum after fertilisation
1. The difference between spermiogenesis and b. Sperm after fertilisation
spermiation is:  (2018) c. Sperm before fertilisation
a. In spermiogenesis spermatids are formed, d. Ovum before fertilisation
while in spermiation spermatozoa are formed.
b. In spermiogenesis spermatozoa are formed, Gametogenesis
while in spermiation spermatids are formed.
c. In spermiogenesis spermatozoa from Sertoli 6. Which of the following cells during gametogenesis
cells are released into the cavity of seminiferous is normally diploid? (2015)
tubules, while in spermiation spermatozoa are a. Spermatogonia
formed. b. Secondary polar body
d. In spermiogenesis spermatozoa are formed, c. Primary polar body
while in spermiation spermatozoa are released
d. Spermatid
from Sertoli cells into the cavity of seminiferous
tubules. Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 49
Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 47
Oogenesis
2. The shared terminal duct of the reproductive and
urinary system in the human male is: (2015) 7. Changes in GnRH pulse frequency in females is
a. Urethra b. Ureter controlled by circulating levels of: (2016 - I)
c. Vas deferens d. Vasa efferentia a. Estrogen and progesterone
Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 43
b. Estrogen and inhibin
3. Select the correct sequence for transport of sperm c. Progesterone only
cells in male reproductive system.  (2019)
d. Progesterone and inhibin
a. Testis → Epididymis → Vasa efferentia →
Rete testis → Inguinal canal → Urethra 8. Extrusion of second polar body from egg nucleus
b. Seminiferous tubules → Rete testis → Vasa occurs:(2019)
efferentia → Epididymis → Vas deferens → a. After entry of sperm but before fertilisation
Ejaculatory duct → Urethra → Urethral meatus b. After fertilisation
c. Seminiferous tubules → Vasa efferentia →
c. Before entry of sperm into ovum
Epididymis → Inguinal canal → Urethra
d. Simultaneously with first cleavage
d. Testis → Epididymis → Vasa efferentia → Vas
deferens → Ejaculatory duct → Inguinal canal Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 52
→ Urethra → Urethral meatus
Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 43 Menstrual Cycle
9. A temporary endocrine gland in the human body
Female Reproductive System
is:(2017-Delhi)
4. Capacitation occurs in: (2017-Delhi) a. Pineal gland
a. Rete testis b. Corpus cardiacum
b. Epididymis c. Corpus luteum
c. Vas deferens d. Corpus allatum
d. Female Reproductive tract Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 51
 10. Match the items given in Column I with those c. hCG, hPL, progestogens, estrogens
in Column II and select the correct option given d. hCG, progestogens, estrogens, glucocorticoids
below(2018)
Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 63
Column I Column II
A. Proliferative Phase 1. Breakdown of 13. The amnion of mammalian embryo is derived
endometrial lining from(2018)
B. Secretory Phase 2. Follicular Phase a. Ectoderm and mesoderm
C. Menstruation 3. Luteal Phase b. Endoderm and mesoderm
a. A-3 B-2 C-1 c. Mesoderm and trophoblast
b. A-1 B-3 C-2 d. Ectoderm and endoderm
c. A-2 B-3 C-1 Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 53
d. A-3 B-1 C-2
Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 51 Parturition and Lactation
Fertilisation and Implantation 14. Which of these is not an important component of
initiation of parturition in humans? (2015)
11. Fertilisation in humans is practically feasible only
if: (2016 - I) a. Release of oxytocin
a. The sperms are transported into vagina just b. Release of prolactin
after the release of ovum in fallopian tube
c. Increase in estrogen and progesterone ratio

Human Reproduction
b. The ovum and sperms are transported
simultaneously to ampullary - isthmic junction of d. Synthesis of prostaglandins
the fallopian tube Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 54-55
c. The ovum and sperms are transported
simultaneously to ampullary - isthmic junction of Multiconcept
the cervix
d. The sperms are transported into cervix within 15. Select the incorrect statement: (2016 - I)
48 hrs of release of ovum in uterus a. FSH stimulates the sertoli cells which help in
Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 51 spermiogenesis
Pregnancy and Embryonic b. LH triggers ovulation in ovary
Development c. LH and FSH decrease gradually during the
12. Hormones secreted by the placenta to maintain follicular phase
pregnancy are:  (2018) d. LH triggers secretion of androgens from the
a. hCG, hPL, progestogens, prolactin Leydig cells
b. hCG, hPL, estrogens, relaxin, oxytocin Ref. NCERT,Class (XII), Ch - 3, Pg. 51

Answer Key
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
d a b d c a a a c c b c a d c

19