Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE)

Cambridge IGCSE Biology 0610

16. Reproduction

Syllabus (2023-2025)

Core: Roles of Testosterone and Oestrogen in Puberty

1. Testosterone: In males, testosterone is responsible for the development of secondary sexual

characteristics such as deepening of the voice, growth of facial and body hair, increased
muscle mass, and enlargement of the testes and penis.

2. Oestrogen: In females, oestrogen plays a key role in the development of secondary sexual
characteristics including breast development, widening of the hips, growth of pubic and
underarm hair, and the onset of menstruation.

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Supplement: Menstrual Cycle: Changes in the Ovaries:

1. Follicular Phase: Follicles in the ovaries begin to develop under the in uence of follicle-
stimulating hormone (FSH), leading to maturation of an egg.

2. Ovulation: Around the middle of the cycle, the mature follicle releases the egg.

3. Luteal Phase: After ovulation, the remaining follicle transforms into the corpus luteum, which
produces progesterone.

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4. Changes in the Uterine Lining:

a) Menstruation: If the egg is not fertilized, the uterine lining sheds, resulting in menstrual
bleeding.

b) Proliferative Phase: Rising oestrogen levels stimulate the growth of the uterine lining.

c) Secretory Phase: After ovulation, progesterone maintains and prepares the uterine lining
for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.

5. Sites of Production of Oestrogen and Progesterone:

a) Menstrual Cycle: Oestrogen is primarily produced by developing ovarian follicles in the

ovaries, while progesterone is mainly produced by the corpus luteum during the luteal
phase.

b) Pregnancy: During pregnancy, both oestrogen and progesterone are produced by the
placenta, which supports the growth and development of the fetus.

Supplement: Role of Hormones in Controlling the Menstrual Cycle and Pregnancy

1. FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): Stimulates the growth and development of ovarian

follicles in the ovaries.

2. LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Triggers ovulation and promotes the formation of the corpus
luteum.

3. Oestrogen: Stimulates the growth of the uterine lining during the proliferative phase and plays
a role in regulating the menstrual cycle.

4. Progesterone: Maintains the uterine lining during the secretory phase, prepares the uterus for
implantation of a fertilized egg, and supports early pregnancy by preventing uterine
contractions that could lead to miscarriage.

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