BMS3072

Reproduction and development

6 points · 3 lectures per week and 3 hours discussion and small group teaching · Second semester · Clayton

Objectives On completion of this subject students will have a thorough understanding of many aspects of human reproduction and development. Students will understand the basic processes of human reproduction and development from detailed study of the development, structure and function of the male and female reproductive systems. Students will understand the beginnings of life, intra-uterine life and fetal development, and the processes of birth and early childhood development. Students will be encouraged to pursue detailed investigations of important applied aspects of human reproductive health, such as infertility, contraception, abortion, sexually transmitted diseases, sexual assault and sexual choice and preference. Students will be expected to understand the impact of assisted reproductive technologies on human reproduction and the associated ethical and health economic consequences. The students will also be expected to understand the application of assisted reproductive technology to the survival of endangered animal species. Finally, students will be encouraged to consider more global aspects of human reproduction, in terms of the human population explosion and limits to human growth.

Synopsis This subject will provide a multidisciplinary approach to human reproduction and development, combining some basic reproductive science with some of the important implications of human reproduction for modern human life. Sexual health matters will form an important focus of the subject, as will the impact of the assisted reproductive technologies on the health care system. Important areas of current concern such as abortion, contraception, sexual assault and sexual preference will be addressed in small group teaching and in structured student projects, discussions and debates. Important milestones in the human sexual life cycle, such as puberty, pregnancy, menopause and senescence will be studied.

Assessment Examination: 60% · Presentations: 20% · Essay: 20%

Prescribed texts

To be advised

Back to the 1999 Medicine Handbook