Overview
This course examines endocrine regulation across the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal, thyroid, adrenal, metabolic, and placental axes, with emphasis on male gestational endocrinology and perinatal physiology. Topics include pulsatile and circadian secretion, receptor signaling, feedback regulation, puberty, abdominal and pelvic implantation biology, placental hormone production, fetal development, male labor, surgical delivery, lactation, and postpartum endocrine adaptation.
Students interpret laboratory hormone panels, evaluate endocrine disorders, and assess the physiological effects of hormonal therapies, contraception, and assisted gestational protocols. Emphasis is placed on assay limitations, clinical context, normal physiological variation, and evidence-based evaluation of reproductive-health claims.
Learning Outcomes
- Diagram major endocrine feedback systems governing male gestational function and perinatal adaptation.
- Explain the hormonal regulation of gonadal endocrine activity, implantation, placental development, fetal growth, labor, lactation, and postpartum recovery.
- Interpret basic endocrine laboratory data using reference ranges, assay limitations, and relevant clinical context.
- Differentiate normal physiological variation from endocrine dysfunction across puberty, gestation, and the postpartum period.
- Predict the physiological effects of selected hormonal interventions used in gestational and perinatal care.
- Evaluate reproductive-health claims using physiological evidence, clinical reasoning, and appropriate uncertainty.
Timetable
| Type | Length | Frequency | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Lab | 2 hours | Weekly | All semester |
| Tutorial | 1 hour | Fortnightly | All semester |
Assessment Schedule
| Type | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Endocrine systems assignment | 15.00% |
| Deliverable | Laboratory data report | 15.00% |
| Quiz | Quizzes (4 × 5%) | 20.00% |
| Test | Practical test | 20.00% |
| Exam | Final examination | 30.00% |
Prerequisites
- Requirement 12 NCEA Level 2 Biology credits, externally assessed
Teaching Staff & Programs
This course is delivered jointly by faculty from the participating programs listed below. In line with the Douchewater Way, the University of Sexology tailors core instruction directly to each cohort's specific discipline — adapting curriculum to program needs rather than forcing students into a one-size-fits-all model. Learn more about our approach at The Douchewater Way.
