1. Module 3

1.38. Page 3

Lesson 4

Module 3—The Male and Female Reproductive Systems

Reflect and Connect

 

This module has examined how the normal human sexual reproductive hormone pathways work. Reproductive hormones are used to help or prevent reproductive potential. They are also used to treat various diseases.

 

For humans, particularly the animal kingdom as a whole, there is a constant bombardment of chemicals infiltrating our environments. How these chemicals influence normal hormone control is just beginning to be understood. Endocrine disruptors are an issue of growing importance in the concern and desire to maintain healthy lifestyles for many organisms. Observation of other organisms sheds light on how these chemicals may affect our own human endocrine pathways.

 

Reflect on the Big Picture

 

As scientists and researchers gain further understanding of how endocrine disruptors affect wildlife, more information is also gained on how these chemicals can affect human populations. Could these chemicals be causing some of the infertility problems that are seen in North America today?

 

Update: A Fertility Case Study

 

From “A Fertility Case Study,” you have seen that Maria was on oral contraceptives for a long time. As her fertility doctor, you first put Maria on Provera, cyclic progestin to regulate her cycle. This medication mimics the second half of her menstrual cycle. Next, like José, she is prescribed Clomid. This drug makes her more likely to ovulate each month. The treatment you have prescribed for both Maria and José are well-established treatments using the most widely used fertility drugs.

 

In this module you have examined some of the structural, functional, and hormonal issues that could affect the fertility of each of the couples in the case study.  In the next module you will examine the events from conception to birth. The nine-month path can involve many situations affecting the successful birth. You may find additional reasons to explain the fertility issues of the couples as you work through Module 4.

 

Going Beyond

 

Complete one of the following options.

 

Option 1: Take a closer look at any one of the known endocrine disruptors mentioned at the beginning of this lesson and do further research on how this chemical directly affects humans.

 

Option 2: Propose and defend a position related to mandatory contraception and a developing nation’s concern with overpopulation and teenage pregnancy.

 

Option 3: Using the search terms “CBC,” “documentaries,” and “The Disappearing Male,” you will be able to access the video “The Disappearing Male.” As you watch, consider the following questions. You may share your answers on the discussion board or with your teacher.

  1. Provide three examples from the growing body of evidence that male sexual health is declining.

  2. How many man-made chemicals have been created in the past 60 years?

  3. What is the purpose of the chemical Bisphenol A?

  4. What is the purpose of the class of chemicals known as phthalates?

  5. What is the current World Health Organization standard for determining male fertility?

  6. What three characteristics are used to measure sperm quality?

  7. What group of chemicals has the ability to alter the development of testes?

  8. What is the source of most modern day synthetic chemicals?

  9. What city is home to approximately 40% of the Canadian chemical industry?

  10. What factor is declining in twenty of the world’s most industrialized countries?

  11. What common chemical is found in hospital nursery wards and is considered to be a reproductive toxicant?

  12. What chemical that has been around since 1891 is raising the most concern today?

  13. What natural human hormone does Bisphenol A mimic?

  14. Males who have undescended testicles are                times more at risk to develop testicular cancer.

  15. Why did Canada take the unprecedented step of banning Bisphenol A from baby bottles?

Module 3: Lesson 9 Assignment

 

Submit your completed Module 3: Lesson 9 Assignment to your teacher for assessment.