Question

Which different hormones control the functions of human reproductive system through chemical coordination?

Answer 1

The functions of the human reproductive system are controlled by several hormones through chemical coordination, mainly from the pituitary gland and the gonads (testes and ovaries).

The important hormones are:

• Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Secreted by the pituitary gland; stimulates the development and maturation of ovarian follicles (eggs) in females and drives sperm production (spermatogenesis) in males.
• Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Secreted by the pituitary gland; triggers ovulation (release of a mature egg) in females and stimulates the testes to produce testosterone in males.
• Testosterone: The primary male sex hormone produced by the testes; responsible for sperm production and the development of male reproductive organs and secondary sexual characteristics.
• Estrogen: A female sex hormone produced by the ovaries; responsible for the development of female reproductive organs, secondary sexual traits, and the initial regulation of the menstrual cycle.
• Progesterone: A female sex hormone secreted by the ovaries (specifically the corpus luteum); prepares and maintains the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) to support and maintain pregnancy.