Unit Hormones and the Reproductive System

Unit 14 Hormones and the Reproductive

SystemTable of Contents

1

3

4

4

Table of Contents

Introduction

Essential Questions

Review

Lesson 14.1: Puberty 5 Objective 5 Warm-Up 5 Learn about It 6 Key Points 10 Web Links 10 Check Your Understanding 11 Challenge Yourself 11

Lesson 14.2: Hormones Controlling the Male Reproductive System 12 Objectives 12 Warm-Up 12 Learn about It 13 Key Points 16 Web Links 17 Check Your Understanding 17 Challenge Yourself 18

Lesson 14.3: Hormones Controlling the Female Reproductive System 19 Objectives 19 Warm-Up 19

Copyright © 2018 Quipper Limited1

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1qJK8IQbKyzep-DgPsgOI9GpZ4It6b6Mif29fCB5uKtc/edit#heading=h.9lz4sycbwaag

Learn about It 20 Key Points 23 Web Links 24 Check Your Understanding 24 Challenge Yourself 25

Lesson 14.4: Hormonal Imbalance 25 Objective 26 Warm-Up 26 Learn about It 27 Key Points 31 Web Links 31 Check Your Understanding 31 Challenge Yourself 32

Laboratory Activity 33

Performance Task 34

Self Check 36

Key Words 36

Wrap Up 38

Photo Credits 38

References 39


GRADE 10 | SCIENCE

Unit 14

Hormones and the Reproductive System

Puberty is when the body starts to change in order to prepare it for possible reproduction. It is during puberty that an individual becomes physically mature in preparation for reproduction. Many changes in the human body appear during puberty. These changes are called secondary sex characteristics, which are caused by the production of different sex hormones. Sex hormones signal the reproductive system to start functioning during puberty. Many mechanisms occur in the body related to the control of hormones, and how these affect the different organs and tissues of both males and females. In this lesson, you will learn how these hormones induce changes in the reproductive system.


Essential Questions

At the end of this unit, you should be able to answer the following questions.

● What are the changes that occur during puberty? ● What causes these changes? ● What hormones affect the male and female reproductive systems? ● What are the mechanisms that affect the normal function of these

hormones? ● What causes hormonal imbalance? ● How does hormonal imbalance affect the body?

Review

● The main components of the male reproductive system include the testes (gonads) and the penis (genitals).

● The main components of the female reproductive system include the ovaries (gonads), and the uterus. Other organs include the fallopian tubes, cervix, and vagina.

● Puberty introduces multiple changes in the bodies of males and females. ● Hormones are substances produced by organs that may induce changes in

the body.


Lesson 14.1: Puberty

Objective In this lesson, you should be able to:

● cite the changes that happen in the human body during puberty.

Puberty is a stage in human growth and development when a human being becomes physically mature. Puberty prepares the body for reproductive maturity. When a person becomes reproductively mature, it means that the person is now physically prepared and capable of reproduction. What are the changes that happen during puberty? How do these changes come about?

Warm-Up

Changes During Puberty Materials:

● two illustration boards, ¼ size ● drawing materials ● tape ● slips of paper containing the text below (see procedures)

Procedure: 1. Draw an outline of a human being on each of the illustration boards. 2. Create small slips of paper containing the following text:

● development of breasts ● menstruation ● hips become wider ● armpit hair ● increased height ● increased armpit sweat

● acne ● broader shoulders ● pubic hair ● adam’s apple more visible ● growth of facial hair ● deeper voice


3. Stick the small slips of paper based on what changes occur during puberty into the corresponding parts. For example, “development of breasts” must be stuck to the chest area of the female outline on the illustration board.

4. Do this for all the characteristics.

Guide Questions: 1. What changes are common to males and females? 2. What is the reason for all these changes occurring?

Learn about It

Puberty Puberty typically starts at ages 10–11 for females, and about 11–12 for males. However, it may vary from individual to individual. Puberty is initiated by various hormonal signals from the brain to the reproductive organs or gonads. In response to the signals, the gonads produce hormones that promote growth and maturation of different parts of the body such as muscles, skin, hair, and breasts. The changes between males and females vary, but the common denominator between both sexes is the preparation of the body for reproductive maturity. The primary glands that are involved in puberty include the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus.

Sex Characteristics Primary Sex Characteristics Primary sex characteristics refer to organs specifically needed for reproduction. These organs are the uterus and the ovaries in females and the testes in males. The ovaries and uterus are considered the female primary sex characteristics because these are directly involved in reproduction. The ovaries are for producing egg cells, whereas the uterus is where the fetus develops after fertilization. The male primary sex characteristics include the testes, as these structures are responsible for producing sperm. All these structures become more developed during puberty.


Humans cannot reproduce without the primary sex organs. However, this is not to say that the other organs of the reproductive system are less important. These also serve the supporting functions that allow proper reproduction or conception to occur. Secondary Sex Characteristics The physical characteristics that develop during puberty are called secondary sex characteristics. Examples of secondary sex characteristics are the growth of facial hair in males, the development of breasts in females, or the growth of armpit hair for both sexes.

Fig. 1. Examples of secondary sex characteristics include the growth of armpit hair

in both sexes or growth of facial hair in boys. The primary hormones that affect the development of secondary sex characteristics are testosterone for males and estrogen for females. These hormones are produced by the gonads, and production is increased during puberty. This then leads to the development of secondary sex characteristics during and after the age of puberty.

Copyright © 2018 Quipper Limited 7

Many characteristics are different for males and females, although some of them are shared between both. Many of these are not directly involved in reproduction. However, some of these secondary sex characteristics may aid in reproduction or pregnancy. An example of a secondary sex characteristic that aids in pregnancy is the development of wider hips for females, as this allows for more space for the fetus, and aids in childbirth.

Gonadarche Gonadarche refers to the development of the reproductive organs, or gonads, during puberty. The gonads in males are the testes and the ovaries in females. When the brain releases pituitary gonadotropins, the gonads grow and mature. This also causes an increase in the production of sex hormones by the gonads. Precocious puberty refers to puberty that starts earlier than the average, whereas delayed puberty is one that starts later than the average. The major sign of puberty in males is the first ejaculation, which occurs, on average, at age 13. For females, the major sign of puberty is the first menstruation, which occurs, on average, between ages 12 and 13.

Table 1. Most common signs of puberty

Boys Girls

Growth of hair in pubic regions Growth of hair in pubic regions

Increase in size and strength of muscles Enlargement of breasts

Enlargement of the larynx and deepening of voice

Beginning of menstruation

Widening of shoulders Broadening of hips

Further development of testes Further development of ovaries

Growth of hair in armpits Growth of hair in armpits

Hormones and Puberty The changes in puberty are largely influenced by hormonal activity. Hormones play an organizational role and an activational role during puberty. The organizational


role of hormones is to prime the body to behave in a certain way once puberty begins. The activational role of hormones is to trigger certain behavioral and physical changes. The hormones that influence puberty are secreted by the endocrine glands: the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and the gonads.

Fig. 2. The changes that occur during puberty are influenced by the hypothalamus,

pituitary gland, and gonads

Copyright © 2018 Quipper Limited 9

Key Points

● Puberty happens in preparation for sexual maturity. It is initiated by various hormonal signals from the brain to the reproductive organs or gonads.

● Primary sex characteristics refer to organs specifically needed for reproduction.

● The primary sex organs of males are the testes. The ovaries and the uterus are for females.

● Gonadarche refers to the development of the reproductive organs, or gonads, during puberty.

● The hormones that influence puberty are secreted by the endocrine glands: pituitary gland and gonads.

Web Links

For further information regarding this lesson, see video links below:

● What do hormones do in your body? For more information, watch “How do your hormones work? - Emma Bryce”: TED-Ed. 2018. ‘‘How do your hormones work?”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SPRPkLoKp8&t=1s

● Is menstruation necessary? To learn more, watch “Why do women have periods?”: TED-Ed. 2015. ‘‘Why do women have periods”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjbgZwgdY7Q&t=1s

● Some cultures have traditions that accompany puberty. Watch: National Geographic. 2007.. ‘‘Boy To Man | National Geographic”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81JPj8BqBBQ


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SPRPkLoKp8&t=1s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjbgZwgdY7Q&t=1s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81JPj8BqBBQ

Check Your Understanding

A. Write male if the change during puberty happens only in males, and female if it only happens in females. Write both if it occurs for males and females. 1. growth of hair in pubic regions 2. growth of hair in armpits 3. increase in size and strength of muscles 4. beginning of menstruation 5. enlargement of breasts 6. widening of shoulders 7. enlargement of the larynx and deepening of voice 8. broadening of hips 9. further development of testes

10. further development of ovaries B. Write true if the statement is accurate, and false if otherwise.

1. The primary sex organs of females are the cervix and the ovaries. 2. An example of a secondary sex characteristic of females is the growth of

facial hair. 3. Gonadarche refers to the first menstruation. 4. Gonadotropins are required for the gonads to mature. 5. The testes produce testosterone necessary for puberty.

Challenge Yourself

Answer the following questions. 1. Can a person reproduce without going through the changes in puberty? Why

or why not? 2. Why does a person need to be reproductively mature in order to reproduce? 3. Are all secondary sex characteristics unrelated to reproduction? 4. Can puberty happen without hormones? Why or why not? 5. Is reproduction possible without hormones? Why or why not?


Lesson 14.2: Hormones Controlling the Male Reproductive System

Objectives In this lesson, you should be able to:

● define the role of pituitary glands and gonads in reproduction; and

● describe hormonal control in male and female reproductive systems.

The physical changes that happen to males that undergo puberty do not just happen spontaneously. There are many physical mechanisms in place that allow these changes to take place. Many of these physical mechanisms involve the use of hormones to induce changes. These hormones, when received by the proper cells or organs, will allow the changes to occur. One such important change in males is spermatogenesis, which involves the production and development of sperm cells. How do these changes come about? What are the hormones involved?

Warm-Up

Physical Changes for Boys Materials:

● internet-connected device Procedure:

1. Watch the video below and answer the following questions

● Top Signs Boys are in Puberty by Amaze ORG Amaze ORG. 2016. ‘‘Top Signs Boys are in Puberty”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onggxBVl4qw


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onggxBVl4qw

Guide Questions: 1. Are these changes necessary for boys? 2. Do all these changes occur in boys?

Learn about It

Spermatogenesis Spermatogenesis is the process of gametogenesis that occurs in males. Gametogenesis involves the production and development of gametes or sex cells. Thus, gametogenesis in males involves the maturation of sperm cells from spermatogonia into adult sperm cells. Adult sperm cells are capable of motility, and thus will be able to fertilize an egg cell. The process of spermatogenesis is triggered when the Sertoli cells of the testes receive FSH released by the hypothalamus. Hormonal Control in Males Puberty in males is controlled by two hormones: follicle-stimulating-hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These two hormones are released in response to another hormone, known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).

Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone At the onset of puberty, the hypothalamus starts secreting high pulses of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). In response, the anterior pituitary gland, a pea-sized body attached to the base of the brain, secretes FSH and LH. Follicle Stimulating Hormone FSH goes into the testes and stimulates the Sertoli cells. Sertoli cells are cells around which spermatids develop in the tubules of the testes. Hence, FSH initiates sperm cell production or spermatogenesis.


Fig. 4. Cross section of a seminiferous tubule in the testes, showing the location of sperm cells, Leydig cells, and Sertoli cells.

Luteinizing Hormone LH enters the testes and stimulates the interstitial cells. The interstitial cells, also called Leydig cells, produce and release testosterone into the testes and the blood. Testosterone Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It is responsible for the secondary sex characteristics that develop in the male during adolescence. It is essential in spermatogenesis. Testosterone is produced in the Leydig cells of the testes. This happens when the pituitary gland releases LH. The chemical structure of testosterone is shown in figure 5. Note that the corners of the polygons are carbon atoms.


Processes of Regulation In summary, the processes are initiated when GnRH stimulates the production of FSH and LH to start the production of sperm cells. Recall that there are feedback mechanisms in place in the body to make sure that the proper signals are released in order to control certain processes.

Fig. 6. Hormonal interactions between the testes and anterior pituitary.

Negative feedback occurs when a change sensed by the body occurs. What the body does in response is to produce a signal, usually in the form of hormones, in order to reverse this change. For example, as is seen in the illustration above, the production of testosterone will have a negative feedback effect on the pituitary gland in order to inhibit the release of hormones like FSH, LH, and GnRH.


There are negative feedback mechanisms involved in males. Some of these include: ● When the testosterone levels increase beyond the normal range, a negative

feedback system occurs to inhibit the pituitary’s production of FSH, LH, and GnRH.

● The Sertoli cells produce inhibin, a hormone that is released into the blood when the sperm count is high. The secretion of inhibin inhibits the release of GnRH and FSH, which causes spermatogenesis to slow down. When the sperm count reaches 20 million/mL, the Sertoli cells stop the production and release of inhibin, allowing the increase in sperm count.

Positive feedback occurs when a stimulus causes a response, which leads to a cascade of repeating events until a change is achieved. The release of LH and FSH have positive feedback effects. LH causes the Leydig cells of the testes to produce more testosterone. FSH, on the other hand, stimulates the Sertoli cells to stimulate spermatogenesis through the release of other male hormones.

Key Points

● Puberty in males is controlled by two hormones: follicle-stimulating- hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

● Spermatogenesis is the process of gametogenesis that occurs in males. It is primarily controlled and initiated by testosterone.

● Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone. It is responsible for the secondary sex characteristics that develop in the male during adolescence.

● Negative feedback occurs when a change sensed by the body occurs. What the body does in response is to produce a signal, usually in the form of hormones, in order to reverse this change.

● Positive feedback occurs when a stimulus causes a response, which leads to a cascade of repeating events until a change is achieved.


Web Links


● To see an animation detailing spermatogenesis, watch “Spermatogenesis [HD]” by McGraw-Hill Animations: McGraw-Hill. 2017. ‘‘Spermatogenesis [HD]”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mK9_6HQbxtU

● To watch a video summarizing male sex hormones, watch “Male Sex Hormones”: Academic Algonquin. 2013. ‘‘Male Sex Hormones”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XK5DaKKDcoE


A. Fill in the blanks 1. At the onset of puberty, the _________ starts secreting high pulses of _________. 2. In response, the _________, a pea-sized gland

attached to the base of the brain, secretes _________ and _________. 3. _________ goes into the testes and stimulates the _________. This initiates

spermatogenesis. 4. _________ enters the testes and stimulates the _________. This causes _________

to be released into the testes and blood. B. Identify the terms being described by the statements below.

1. This hormone is in charge of the development of secondary male sex characteristics.

2. This is the primary male sex organ. 3. This refers to the development of sperm cells from spermatogonia. 4. This occurs when a change sensed by the body occurs. What the body does

in response is to produce a signal, usually in the form of hormones, in order to reverse this change.

5. This hormone is produced by the Sertoli cells when sperm count is high.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SPRPkLoKp8&t=1s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XK5DaKKDcoE

C. Write true if the statement is accurate, and false otherwise. 1. Stimuli may cause positive or negative feedback. 2. Hormones do not influence other hormones. 3. There is a series of feedback systems in place to ensure proper hormonal

function. 4. Glands and hormones control gametogenesis. 5. Testosterone is the only hormone that matters in spermatogenesis.

Challenge Yourself

Answer the following questions.

1. What is the importance of spermatogenesis in reproduction? 2. Why is negative feedback important in the male reproductive system? 3. Why do sperm cells need to be motile to perform their function? 4. Will reproduction be possible without testosterone? Why or why not? 5. Can puberty begin without the hypothalamus?


Lesson 14.3: Hormones Controlling the Female Reproductive System

Objectives In this lesson, you should be able to:

● define the role of pituitary glands and gonads in reproduction; and

● describe hormonal control in male and female reproductive systems.

The female reproductive system’s development and changes that occur during puberty are also controlled by hormones from different sources. The mechanisms are somewhat similar to those of the male reproductive system, albeit with many key differences. What are the changes that occur? What hormones are involved?

Warm-Up Physical Changes for Girls Materials:

● internet-connected device

Procedure: Watch the video below and answer the following questions

● Top Signs Girls are in Puberty by Amaze ORG Amaze ORG. 2016. ‘‘Top Signs Girls are in Puberty”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6oka_hqMJk

Guide Questions: 1. Are these changes necessary for girls? 2. Do all these changes occur in girls?


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onggxBVl4qw

Learn about It

Oogenesis

The process of gametogenesis in females is known as oogenesis. Oogenesis involves the development of a mature ovum or egg cell from an oogonium. The process of oogenesis occurs in the ovaries. The developing egg is housed in a structure known as a follicle. The follicle is in charge of protecting and nourishing the developing egg cell until it is ready to be released through ovulation. Unlike in spermatogenesis where four adult sperm cells are produced from one spermatogonium, oogenesis produces only one adult egg cell from one oogonium.

Hormonal Control in Females The main hormones associated with oogenesis are FSH, LH, estrogen, and progesterone.

Gonadotropin-releasing Hormone Much like in males, the female body is also controlled by various hormones that trigger specific changes. The female hormones are also controlled by the GnRH. GnRH causes the release of the hormones FSH and LH from the anterior pituitary gland.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone FSH stimulates the development of egg cells, which develop in structures called follicles.

Luteinizing Hormone LH also stimulates the development of egg cells. It also stimulates the production of estrogen and progesterone.


Estrogen Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone. It is responsible for the development of breasts, uterus, and vagina. It is also responsible for the broadening of the hips, growth of pubic and axillary hair, and increase in adipose tissues. It participates in the preparation of the female’s body for pregnancy and during pregnancy.

Fig. 8. Chemical structure of estrogen, the primary female sex hormone (Note that the corners of the polygons are carbon atoms.)

Progesterone Progesterone is known as the pregnancy maintainer. During pregnancy, high levels of progesterone keep the endometrium (uterus lining) intact. Thus, menstruation does not occur.

Fig. 9. Chemical structure of progesterone, the pregnancy maintainer (Note that the corners of the polygons are carbon atoms.)

Regulation of Female Hormones The control of reproductive hormones is more complex in females than in males. The pattern of activation and inhibition of hormones varies between phases of the reproductive cycle.


The hormones usually coincide with the specific phases of the menstrual cycle. As you will learn below, the hormones and changes that occur during the follicular, ovulation, and luteal phases are different. Feedback mechanisms are also present in the regulation of female hormones.

Fig. 10. Regulation of hormones during ovarian and menstrual cycles of female reproduction. The pattern of activation and inhibition of these hormones varies

between phases of the reproductive cycle.


Follicular Phase During the follicular phase, the follicles produce low levels of estrogen that inhibit the production of GnRH, LH, and FSH. Endometrial arteries constrict, resulting in menstruation.

Ovulation During ovulation, the follicles produce high levels of estrogen that stimulate the production of GnRH, LH, and FSH. The endometrium thickens.

Luteal Phase During the luteal phase, LH stimulates the growth of a corpus luteum from follicular tissues. The corpus luteum secretes estrogen and progesterone. Secretion of GnRH, LH, and FSH is blocked.

Key Points

● Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone. ● Progesterone is known as the pregnancy maintainer. During pregnancy,

high levels of progesterone keep the endometrium (uterus lining) intact. ● The process of gametogenesis in females is known as oogenesis. Oogenesis

involves the development of a mature ovum or egg cell from an oogonium.● Unlike in spermatogenesis where four adult sperm cells are produced from

one spermatogonium, oogenesis produces only one adult egg cell from one oogonium.

● The pattern of activation and inhibition of female hormones varies between phases of the reproductive cycle.


Web Links


● To see an animation detailing oogenesis, watch “Oogenesis [Animation]” by McGraw-Hill Animations: McGraw-Hill. 2017. Oogenesis [Animation]”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-_-MnlOfbY

● To see an animation showing the maturation of the follicle, watch “Maturation of the Follicle and Oocyte [ HD Animation]” by McGraw-Hill Animations: McGraw-Hill. 2017. Maturation of the Follicle and Oocyte [HD Animation]”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67BTUbu_JPU


A. Fill in the blanks 1. __________ causes the release of the hormones __________ and LH from the

__________. 2. FSH stimulates the development of __________ cells, which develop in

structures called __________. 3. __________ also stimulates the development of egg cells. It also stimulates the

production of the hormones __________ and __________. 4. Estrogen aids in the development of __________ characteristics during

puberty. 5. Progesterone allows the __________ to thicken during pregnancy.

B. Identify the terms being described by the statements below.

1. Gametogenesis in females. 2. These are the primary sex organs of females. 3. This is where the process of gametogenesis in females occurs. 4. This hormone is known as the pregnancy maintainer. 5. This is the primary female sex hormone.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-_-MnlOfbY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67BTUbu_JPU

C. Write true if the statement is accurate, and false otherwise. 1. There is a set number of primordial follicles in females. 2. Meiosis completes during puberty. 3. The egg cells undergo mitosis to increase in number. 4. Menopause refers to the release of eggs. 5. Follicles nourish the developing egg cells.

Challenge Yourself

Answer the following questions. 1. Why does oogenesis only produce one adult egg cell? 2. Is pregnancy possible without progesterone and estrogen? 3. How does the hypothalamus affect the pituitary gland in females? 4. Why is there a need for different mechanisms per phase of the menstrual

cycle? 5. What is an example of negative feedback in females?


Lesson 14.4: Hormonal Imbalance

Objective In this lesson, you should be able to:

● explain the causes and effects of hormonal imbalance.

The normal production of hormones is necessary for the normal functioning of both the male and female reproductive systems, as well as the normal manifestation of different characteristics of other organ systems. Low or excessive amounts of these hormones can lead to negative changes in the body. What causes the imbalance of hormones? What is the effect of hormonal imbalance in the body?

Warm-Up

Effects of Hormone Imbalance Materials:

● two illustration boards ● drawing materials ● tape ● slips of paper containing the text below (see procedures)

Procedure:

1. Draw an outline of a human being on each of the illustration boards. One will represent a male and the other a female.

2. Create small slips of paper containing the following text: ● high estrogen ● normal estrogen ● high testosterone

● normal testosterone

3. Below is a list of structures on the male and female outlines. For each


structure, randomly pick from the “high estrogen” and “normal estrogen” for males, and “high testosterone” and “normal testosterone” for females. Write what you randomly chose in the boxes below.

Male

Structure Normal or High Testosterone

Chest

Muscle Mass

Abdominal Fat

Testes

Body Hair

Female

Structure Normal or High Estrogen

Facial Hair

Body Hair

Menstrual Cycle

Acne

4. Draw the structures above in the outlines by basing it on what you think the effect will be depending on the level of hormones that you randomly chose. Do this for all the structures for both male and female.

Procedure 1. What can possibly account for abnormal hormone levels? 2. Why do these effects occur?


Learn about It

Hormones are substances produced by the endocrine glands to regulate physiology and behavior. They are often called chemical messengers of the body. Hormonal imbalance may have negative impacts on a person’s mood, physical characteristics, sexual desire, and fertility.

Causes of Hormonal Imbalance The causes of hormonal imbalance are stress, environmental conditions, poor diet, consumption of products with hormones, contraceptive medications, and hormone replacement therapy.

Stress Excessive physical stress can dramatically alter the production of hormones in your body. For example, due to certain pathways in the body, increased stress may lead to an excess amount of estrogen which can affect different body functions.

Environmental Conditions Certain toxins that are pollutants found in the environment have the potential to cause hormonal imbalance. Such toxins include insecticides, herbicides, and those released as industrial waste.

Fig. 11. Scientific studies show that pesticide exposure may lead to hormonal imbalance.


Poor Diet The lack of certain nutrients in a person’s diet may lead to certain imbalances in hormone production. Always make sure you obtain all the necessary nutrients by having a balanced diet.

Consumption of Products with Hormones Some animal products contain an excess of hormones. The introduction of these hormones into the animal’s systems is sometimes deliberate in order to introduce desired changes within the livestock. There are also cases of animal products that are accidentally contaminated with hormones.

Contraceptive Medications Some contraceptive medications, or medicine used for preventing pregnancy, may cause hormonal imbalance. Some of these medications directly inhibit the production or maintenance of certain hormones.

Hormone Replacement Therapy Hormone replacement therapy involves the deliberate intake of hormones into the body from an outside source in order to mitigate or lessen the symptoms of certain processes or disorders. Some cases that hormone replacement therapy can help are menopausal symptoms or osteoporosis.

Signs and Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance The signs and symptoms of hormonal imbalance are as follows:

● Irritability ● excessive hair growth ● dizziness and anxiety ● low sexual desire ● shrinkage in breast (in females)

or scrotum (in males)

● infertility ● premenstrual syndrome in

females ● weight gain

Fig. 13 shows some of the effects of hormonal imbalance in both males and females. Some notable physical manifestations are the high amounts of fat seen in many areas which include the thighs, buttocks, hips, and abdomen. Multiple hormones all play a role in how the increased amount of body fat manifests.


Fig. 13. Physical manifestations of hormonal imbalance. Examples of Hormonal Imbalance The following are examples of hormonal imbalance:

● Young children with too much testosterone or estrogen show early puberty. ● Testosterone deficiency can lead to sexual development disorder

(hypogonadism), a decrease in sexual drive, and slow body growth. ● If any of the hormones involved in the menstrual cycle are not balanced, the

result can be irregular or missed periods. Amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual periods.


Key Points

● Hormonal imbalance is caused by many factors and can have multiple physical effects on the body.

● Some of these factors include toxins, stress, lack of sleep, and improper diet. ● The imbalance of hormones can lead to abnormal cycles and physical effects. ● Hormone imbalance can either be an excess or lack of hormones.

Web Links


● Stress has many effects on the body. For more information, watch “How stress affects your body - Sharon Horesh Bergquist”: TED-Ed. 2015. ‘‘How stress affects your body - Sharon Horesh Bergquist”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-t1Z5-oPtU

● What is amenorrhea? To learn more, watch “Amenorrhea - Absence of Menstrual Periods, Animation”: Alila Medical Media. 2018. ‘‘Amenorrhea - Absence of Menstrual Periods, Animation”’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8m7hOVSgGFo


A. Identify if the statements below are beneficial or harmful in preventing hormone imbalance. Write good for beneficial, and bad for harmful. 1. balanced diet 2. proper exercise 3. consuming excessive animal products 4. lack of sleep 5. stress


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-t1Z5-oPtU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8m7hOVSgGFo

6. close contact with toxins 7. wearing protective gear when in contact with chemicals.

B. Write true or false.

1. Contraceptive medications can cause hormonal imbalance. 2. Early puberty is not caused by hormonal imbalance. 3. Amenorrhea can be caused by hormonal imbalance. 4. Irregular menstruation is caused by hormonal imbalance. 5. High estrogen or testosterone can cause excessive chest fat. 6. High insulin can cause excess abdominal fat. 7. Weight gain is a symptom of hormonal imbalance. 8. High cortisol can cause excess abdominal fat.

Challenge Yourself

Answer the following questions.

1. How can environmental toxins cause hormonal imbalance? 2. Why is stress release necessary for good health? 3. What is the importance of avoiding excessive consumption of animal

products? 4. How can the intake of contraceptives cause hormonal imbalance? 5. How does a balanced diet ensure that hormone production is normal?


Laboratory Activity

Activity 14.2 Feedback Diorama

Objectives At the end of this laboratory activity, the students should be able to:

● identify the changes that can be caused by hormones; ● identify and explain the pathways these hormones take.

Materials and Equipment

● four shoeboxes ● clay ● illustration board ● coloring materials ● yarn ● cotton

Procedure 1. Create two models of a male body in two shoeboxes. Create two models of a

female body in the other two shoeboxes. Use illustration boards for the outline, and use the other materials that you have for the organs. Be creative.

2. One model of a male and one model of a female will be the “before” model. The others will be the “after” model. Make sure you label them accordingly.

3. In both the before and after models, connect the organs using yarn to illustrate the hormone effects of the following: Male: hypothalamus to pituitary, pituitary to testes, testes to chest, testes to arms, testes to shoulders, testes to face. Female: hypothalamus to pituitary, pituitary to ovaries, ovaries to chest, ovaries to hips, ovaries to organs of the female reproductive system.

4. In the after model, modify the targeted organs based on how they change after hormones act on them. Use the materials that you have. Be creative.


Guide Questions 1. What will happen to the chain of signaling if one hormone does not function

properly? 2. Why is the female signaling pathway more complicated?

Performance Task

Hormone Imbalance Awareness

Goal ● Your goal is to create a human model that can show the effects of hormonal

imbalance. Role

● You are young professionals who want to increase awareness of the effects of hormonal imbalance.

Audience

● Your primary audience is the school community. Situation

● Many people are still not aware of what hormonal imbalance is, what causes it, and how it affects the body. This task aims to remedy that.

Product, Performance, and Purpose

● You are to create a model of a human body and an accompanying poster to explain the model.

This will be about hormonal imbalance, and how hormonal imbalance can manifest in people. You may create the human model however way you wish. (Clay, paper mache, etc.) You can choose between male and female, and the type of imbalance. The list is below:


● For female: ○ effects of testosterone imbalance (high and low) ○ effects of estrogen imbalance (high and low) ○ effects of progesterone imbalance (high and low)

● For male:

○ effects of testosterone imbalance (high and low) ○ effects of estrogen imbalance (high and low)

The model should show the effects, and the accompanying poster should explain the details of these effects Standards and Criteria

● Your performance will be graded by the following rubric.

Criteria Below

Expectations, 0% to 49%

Needs Improvement

50% to 74%

Successful Performance 75% to 99%

Exemplary Performance

100%

Content. Detailed facts are presented well. Content related to the task.

Details not presented. Content is not related to the task.

Details are presented but not organized. There is some content that is not related to the task.

Details are presented in an organized manner. Content is related to the task.

Details are presented in an organized matter that can be easily understood. Content is related to the task. Additional supporting details are presented.

Communication Skills. Presentation was done in a clear and logical manner.

Presentation was not done.

Presentation was done but in a disorganized and illogical manner.

Presentation was done smoothly but the concepts are presented in such a way that should be rearranged for better understanding.

Presentation was done clearly. Concepts were presented in a logical manner and easily understandable by the audience.

Audiovisual materials. Materials presented in a creative way but not sacrificing the accuracy of facts.

No audiovisual materials used.

Audiovisual materials are used but are messy and disorganized. There are no attention to details.

Audiovisual materials are well organized and done neatly. Some attention are paid to detail.

Audiovisual materials are well organized and done creatively. There is also a great attention to details.


Integrating concepts in hormonal imbalance. Subject matter is integrated and properly used in presenting facts.

No concept on hormone imbalance discussed in the task.

The concept of hormone imbalance was mentioned but not integrated into the task.

The concept of hormone imbalance was properly integrated into the task. Concepts were properly presented in relation to the task.

The concept of hormone imbalance was integrated in an organized and logical way. Additional concepts about photosynthesis related to the task were presented.

Self Check

Do a self-check on how well you learned the lessons in this unit. Place a checkmark in the appropriate box.

Check I can…

identify the changes that happen during puberty.

explain the mechanisms involved with hormonal pathways affecting the male and female reproductive system.

identify causes of hormone imbalance.

explain the effects of hormone imbalance on the body.

Key Words

Estrogen This is the primary female sex hormone.

Follicle This structure is where the egg cells develop.

Hypothalamus This gland produces GnRH.

Leydig Cells These cells produce and release testosterone into the testes and the blood.


Negative Feedback This occurs when a change sensed by the body occurs. What the body does in response is to produce a signal, usually in the form of hormones, in order to reverse this change.

Oocyte These are the female gametes.

Oogenesis This refers to the development and maturity of an oogonium into a mature egg.

Pituitary Gland This is a gland responsible for the release of LH and FSH.

Positive Feedback This occurs when a stimulus causes a response, which leads to a cascade of repeating events until a change is achieved.

Primary Sex Characteristics

These refer to organs specifically needed for reproduction.

Progesterone This is the hormone known as the pregnancy maintainer.

Secondary Sex Characteristics

The physical characteristics that develop during puberty are called secondary sex characteristics.

Sertoli Cells Sertoli cells are cells around which spermatids develop in the tubules of the testes.

Spermatogenesis This is the process of the development and maturation of spermatogonia into adult sperm cells.

Testosterone This is the primary male sex hormone.


Wrap Up

Hormones Controlling the Reproductive System

Photo Credits

Intro. Public Domain Fig. 6. Graafian Follicle, Human Ovary (3595817584) by Ed Uthman, is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons Fig 10. Pesticides application 02 by Zeynel Cebeci, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons Fig. 11. Opened oral birth control by Bryancalabro, is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Graafian_Follicle,_Human_Ovary_(3595817584).jpg

https://www.flickr.com/people/78147607@N00

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Pesticides_application_02.jpg

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Zcebeci

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Opened_Oral_Birth_Control.jpg

References

Boundless. August 8, 2016. “Male Hormones.” Boundless Biology. Accessed August 26, 2016. https://www.boundless.com/biology/textbooks/boundless-biology- textbook/animal-reproduction-and-development-43/hormonal-control-of-hu man-reproduction-240/ male-hormones-892-12143/.

Boundless. August 8, 2016. “Female Hormones.” Boundless Biology. Accessed August 26, 2016. https://www.boundless.com/biology/

textbooks/boundless-biology-textbook/animal-reproduction-and-developme nt-43/hormonal-control-of-human-reproduction-240/ female- hormones- 893 -12144/.

Kerry O’Donnell. 2001. The Reproductive System. The Rosen Publishing Group, Inc. Norman, Anthony W., and Helen L. Henry. 2014. Hormones. London: Academic

Press.


https://www.boundless.com/biology/textbooks/boundless-biology-

https://www.boundless.com/biology/

Unit Hormones and the Reproductive System

Documents