Chapter 7: Part 1

Flashcards for key terms and definitions related to the male reproductive system.

testis

The primary male sex organ, paired, oval-shaped, and enclosed in a sac called the scrotum, producing sperm and testosterone.

seminiferous tubules

Approximately 900 coiled tubes within the testes in which spermatogenesis occurs.

sperm

The microscopic male germ cell which, when united with the ovum, produces a zygote.

testosterone

The principal male sex hormone that stimulates development of male reproductive organs and secondary sex characteristics.

epididymis

A coiled tube attached to each testis for storage, maturation, and transit of sperm.

vas deferens

Duct carrying sperm from the epididymis to the urethra; encloses nerves, lymphatics, arteries, and veins.

seminal vesicles

Two glands located posterior to the bladder that secrete fluid forming part of semen.

prostate gland

Walnut-shaped gland surrounding the proximal urethra, secreting fluid to aid sperm movement.

semen

Fluid composed of sperm, seminal fluids, and other secretions.

scrotum

Sac containing the testes and epididymides, suspended posterior to the penis.

penis

Male organ of urination and coitus.

glans penis

Enlarged tip on the end of the penis.

prepuce

Fold of skin covering the glans penis in uncircumcised males.

genitalia

Reproductive organs, including both internal and external structures.

gonads

Primary reproductive organs, testes in males and ovaries in females.

erectile dysfunction

Inability of the male to attain or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

hydrocele

Fluid-filled sac around the testicle causing scrotal swelling.

infertility

Reduced or absent ability to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected sexual intercourse.

phimosis

Tightness of the foreskin that prevents its retraction over the glans penis.

priapism

Persistent abnormal erection of the penis accompanied by pain.

prostate cancer

Cancer of the prostate gland, usually occurring in middle-aged and older men.

spermatocele

Distended epididymis containing a cyst-like collection of fluid and sperm cells.

testicular cancer

Cancer of the testicle, usually occurring in men aged 15 to 35.