A. The human system is composed of a pair of primary reproductive organs (gonads), accessory glands, and ducts.

1. Female ovaries produce eggs; male testes produce sperm.

2. Gonads also produce hormones for reproductive function and secondary sexual traits, such as beard growth in males and fat deposits in female breasts.

B. All gonads are similar in form until the seventh week of development, after which hormones trigger development of testes or ovaries.