1-13. UROGENITAL SYSTEM
This system, also called genitourinary system, includes the organs that eliminate
urinary wastes from the body and the organs of reproduction (see figure 1-16). The
urinary organs include the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The kidneys are
located on each side of the spine, just above the small of the back. They filter wastes
from the bloodstream. These wastes pass into the ureters as urine. The ureters are
thin, muscular tubes which lead to the bladder. The bladder is a muscular organ for
storing urine. The urethra is a tube which eliminates urine from the bladder to the
outside of the body. The male reproductive system includes the two testes which
produce cells called spermatozoa and male sex hormones. The female reproductive
system includes the two ovaries which produce female reproductive cells called ova, or
eggs, and female sex hormones. When a spermatozoon unites with an ovum, under
the proper conditions, a single cell is formed. This single cell develops into a human
being.
Figure 1-16. Urogenital system.
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