The uterus prepares during every ovulation cycle in anticipation of a possible pregnancy. The lining of the uterus thickness so that it can give support to the developing embryo. When fertilisation does not occur, this lining disintegrates because it is no longer required. The fragments of the lining are shed along with blood and the discarded egg; through the vagina. The discharge of discarded tissue is called menstruation.

The path of sperm during ejaculation is as follows:
Vas deferens\(\rightarrow \) Seminal Vesicle\(\rightarrow \) Urethra Glands associated with the male reproductive system and their functions are as follows:
(a) Testis : Secretes the hormone testosterone.
(b) Prostate gland : Makes the medium of semen alkaline
(c) Seminal vesicle : Adds fluid content to the sperm
(d) Cowper's gland : The secretion of this gland lubricates the urethra before ejaculation and neutralises the acidic traces of urine in the urethra.

General growth and sexual maturation are different from each other in many senses. General growth is all about attaining physical maturity in which the organism undergoes through various stages to become an adult. Once the physical growth is complete, it lays the foundation for sexual maturity. Sexual maturity is related to preparing the body for physical and psychological responsibilities related to reproduction.

Every species has to constantly struggle for its survival. Natural predators and vagaries of nature keep on removing a large section of the population of a particular species. Moreover, the natural cycle of life and death also removes a section of the population. Reproduction is a way to replenish the lost section of population. Thus, it can be said that reproduction is linked to the stability of population of a species.

After fertiliZation, zygote is located in the ovary.