What Is the Function of the Reproductive System?
In a large number of species, the reproductive system hosts organs and systems, such as gonads, needed for successful reproduction and also secretes sex hormones such as progesterone and testosterone, notes Wikipedia. In addition, the female of many species come with specialized structures for nourishing and protecting offspring until birth.
In human beings, the primary function of the male reproductive system is to produce, nourish, protect and transport sperm, according to WebMD. In addition, the system produces hormones such as testosterone that are essential to the proper function of the male reproductive system. A significant proportion of the human male reproductive system is external, composed of the penis, scrotum and testicles.
The primary functions of the human female reproductive system are production of the female egg cells known as ova or oocytes, transportation of the ova to fertilization sites and protection and nourishment of fertilized eggs, notes WebMD. In addition, the system produces female sex hormones such as progesterone. The larger proportion of the human female reproductive system is located inside the body. Parts that are located outside the body include the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris and Bartholin’s glands, which produce mucus that keeps the vagina lubricated. These structures allow sperm to enter the body and also keep harmful organisms away from internal organs.
