Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
These are primary reproductive organs; testes in males produce sperm and testosterone while ovaries in females produce eggs (ova) and hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
Related terms
Gonads: This is a general term used to refer both testes in males and ovaries in females. They are responsible for producing gametes (sperm or egg cells) and sex hormones.
Estrogen & Progesterone: These are female sex hormones produced mainly by ovaries. Estrogen is involved in the development of female secondary sexual characteristics, while progesterone plays a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.