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Reproductive System
The function of the reproductive system is to produce new offspring. The continuity of the human race is guaranteed through reproduction.
Male Reproductive System
Main function is to produce sperm and deliver it to the female reproductive system.
Male Puberty
Starts at around age 12-13
Hormonal changes stimulate an increase in growth rate, alterations in behavior, enlargement of the genitals, and the appearance of secondary sexual characteristics such as facial hair.
Sex cells that are produced in the testes and are used to fertilize the egg
Sperm swim at the rate of 1-4 mm per minute or 60-240mm per hour
50,000 sperm are produced each MINUTE in mature men
Semen
A thick fluid containing sperm and other secretions from the male reproductive system. These fluids give nutrition and protection to the sperm to help them reach the egg for fertilization.
Testicles (testes)
Male reproductive organ that makes sperm and testosterone
Males begin producing 100+ million sperm a day once they reach puberty
Testosterone
The male sex hormone that influences sperm production
During puberty, testosterone causes facial and body hair to grow, shoulders to broaden and voice to deepen
Penis
The external male reproductive organ that is made up of spongy tissue that has blood flow going through it
Foreskin
A piece of skin that partially covers the tip of the penis at birth
Circumcision is the removal of the foreskin from the tip of the penis
Circumcised: removes some or all of foreskin
Uncircumcised: foreskin not removed
Scrotum
The skin covered sac that the testes rest in
Muscles of the scrotum help with temperature control
Epididymis
A tightly coiled tube where sperm mature as they pass through
The epididymis can be up to 20-23 feet long
Vasectomy
The severing and tying off of the vas Deferens
Once the vas deferens is severed, sperm will not be able to be ejaculated out of the penis
Seminal Vesicles
Found near the base of the urinary bladder
Produce thick secretions that nourish the sperm and help sperm move easier
Prostate Gland
Encircles the urethra near the bladder
About the size of a walnut
Secretes a thin, milky fluid that protects the sperm from acid in the female reproductive system
Located below the bladder
Produces an alkaline secretion that increases sperm motility and neutralizes the acidity of the vagina
During ejaculation, the prostate gland Contracts causing the expulsion of semen
Closes off the urethra, preventing urine passage through the urethra
Sphincter Valve
A small piece of skin, a muscle that holds back urine or semen so that both do not come out of the body at the same time
Cowper’s Gland
Cowper’s Gland
Found near urethra below the prostate
Prior to ejaculation this gland secretes a clear fluid that protects the sperm from acid in the male urethra
Urethra
Urine passes through the urethra, a tube that starts at the bladder and ends at the opening of the penis
Sperm also pass through the urethra during ejaculation but not at the same time as urine is carried
Path of Sperm
Testes - Epididymis - Vas deferens - Seminal Vesicle - Prostate Gland - Cowper’s Gland - Urethra - Ejaculated out of Body
Prostate Exam
An examination that is performed to identify any irregularities in the prostate
Exams help in early detection of prostate cancer
Prostate cancer occurs primarily in older males and is the 2nd most common cancer in males in the U.S
For every 3 men diagnosed with cancer this year 1 will have prostate cancer.
Testicular Exam
A self exam that men should perform once per month once they have reached puberty to detect any lumps, swelling, pain, or discomfort in the scrotum or abdomen
Problems of the Male Reproductive System:
Inguinal Hernia
Sterility
Testicular Cancer
Prostate Problems
Inguinal Hernia
A separation of tissue that allows part of the intestine to push into the abdominal wall near the top of the scrotum. Straining the abdominal muscles or lifting heavy objects can cause a tear in this tissue.
Sterility
The inability to reproduce. In males it can result from too few sperm- fewer than 20 million per milliliter of seminal fluid- or sperm of poor quality. Sterility can result from environmental hazards, including exposure to X Rays or radiation, toxic chemicals, and lead. Hormonal imbalance, certain medications, or drug use including anabolic steroids can damage sperm. Some diseases, including STIs, and contracting mumps as an adult also can result in sterility.
Testicular Cancer
Cancer that develops in the cells of the testes. Risk factors for getting testicular cancer includes: undescended testicles, abnormal testicular development, anabolic steroid use, and a family history of cancer. Regular self-exams for abnormal lumps of the testicles can detect an early case of cancer.
Prostate Problems
The prostate gland can become enlarged as a result of an infection, a tumor, or age-related problems. The enlarged gland can press against the urethra resulting in frequent and difficulty urinating. Men start to have yearly prostate exams from their physician between the age of 40-50 years of age.