Reproduction can be defined as the process by which an organism continues its species. In the human reproductive process, two kinds of sex cells ( gametes), are involved: the male gamete (sperm), and the female gamete (egg or ovum).The reproductive system in females is responsible for producing gametes (called eggs or ova), certain sex hormones, and maintaining fertilized eggs as they develop into a mature fetus and become ready for delivery.

To produce, maintain, and transport sperm (the male reproductive cells) and protective fluid (semen) To discharge sperm within the female reproductive tract during sex. To produce and secrete male sex hormones responsible for maintaining the male reproductive system.The female reproductive system includes the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, vagina, vulva, mammary glands and breasts. These organs are involved in the production and transportation of gametes and the production of sex hormones.

The main reproductive hormones are oestrogen and testosterone. Oestrogen causes eggs to mature in ovaries once a girl hits puberty. These are then released at regular intervals during the menstrual cycle. Testosterone stimulates sperm production in males.The most important hormone for reproduction is called gonadotropin releasing hormone, better known as GnRH.While we sleep, our bodies repair cells and regulate fertility hormones such as progesterone, estrogen, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. One especially crucial fertility hormone is leptin which directly affects ovulation. Women need adequate sleep for proper leptin production.An imbalance in hormones can be caused by unusually high stress, insufficient sleep, an unhealthy diet, diabetes, menopause, pregnancy, thyroid problems, and other conditions. The body has a very delicate chemistry. Changes in that chemistry can quickly produce noticeable symptoms and other health problems.

The release of the hormone oxytocin leads to the milk ejection or let-down reflex. Oxytocin stimulates the muscles surrounding the breast to squeeze out the milk.

The normal physiology of lactation is a process that begins to take effect well before the initial latch of the newborn infant. It requires the breast to change in composition, size, and shape during each stage of female development. Development includes puberty, pregnancy, and lactation.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)

It's produced by the placenta after implantation, and supports the function of the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum is a temporary structure in the ovaries which produces other key hormones during early pregnancy. hCG is also the hormone detected by pregnancy tests.Progesterone is sometimes called the "pregnancy hormone" because of the role it plays in getting pregnant and maintaining a pregnancy. Progesterone gets the uterus ready to accept and maintain a fertilized egg.

At the end of the course the students should know about Female and Male Hormonal System, Ovarian cycle, Pregnancy and Lactation.

The following books are recommended for this course; 

• Textbook of Medical Physiology, Guyton and Hall
• Review of Medical Physiology, Ganong,W.F
• Physiology Board Review Series, Costanzo, Linda S
• Medical Physiology by Jaypee

At the end of this course, written(MCQs and SEQS) and viva test shall be held which would add up to the internal assessment of the students. Before annual prof, a sendup exam will be taken.