THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

The function of the reproductive system is to ensure survival of the species. We distinguish male
and female reproductive systems. The specific role of the female is to provide an optimal
environment for the development of the foetus.

The female reproductive system is divided into the external and the internal genitals.

The mail reproductive system consists of two testes, four types of excretory ducts, a penis and
three different accessory glands.

There are several sexually transmitted diseases, which can affect both men and women, such as
gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes and AIDS. AIDS (immunodeficiency syndrome) is a relative new disease.
It was first recognized in the U.S.A. in 1981, but the virus, known as the human immunodeficiency
virus (HIV), which is responsible for the disease, was not isolated until 1983.

The transmission of the HIV virus is through blood or blood products. The common methods of the
transmission are:

a) Through sexual activity, particularly anal intercourse,

b) Through the sharing of infected needles by those injecting drugs,

c) Through the accidental transfusion of patients with infected blood,

 d) By congenital infection, which means the transmission of the virus from an infected mother to
an unborn baby.

The course of the disease involves four stages. Firstly, when the person becomes infected, he may
feel generally unwell for a few days, as if he has a very bad cold. Afterwards, this disappears and
he feels perfectly healthy. It may continue for several years and this period is known as the
asymptomatic stage. The third stage is called the persistent generalised lymphadenopathy (or PGL)
when most of the patient’s lymph nodes swell up, but he still does not fell ill. The fourth stage
is AIDS itself, the patient suffers from unusual infections or tumours and his immune system is too
weak to resist. After a period lasting months or even a year, when the patient feels very ill, he
dies. There is no treatment for HIV infection (although in some patients a healthy life - style can
extend their life for up to 20 years) and it is likely that everyone infected with HIV will get
AIDS.