structures

Testis

Primary male sex organ, paired, oval-shaped, and enclosed in a sac called the scrotum. They produce spermatozoa and the hormone 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 that with subsequent development becomes an embryo.

Testosterone

The principle male sex hormone. It’s chief function is to stimulate the development of the male reproductive organs and secondary sex characteristics such as facial and pubic hair

Epididymis

Coiled tube attached to each testis that provides for storage, transit, and maturation of sperm; continuous with each vas deferens

Vas deferans

Duct (tube) carrying the sperm from the epididymis to the urethra.

Urethra

connects the urinary bladder to carry urine outside the body.

spermatic cord

encloses each of these with nerves, lymphatics, arteries, and veins.

Ductus deferens

Circular muscle constricts during intercourse to prevent urination

Seminal vesicles

Two accessory glands located posterior to the base of the bladder that open into the vas deferens. The glands secrete a thick fluid that forms part of the semen

Prostate gland

Walnut-shaped gland that encircles the proximal section of the urethra. Secrets a fluid that aids in the movement of the sperm and ejaculation.

Semen

Substance composed of sperm, seminal fluids, and other secretions

Scrotum

Sac containing the testes and their corresponding epididymides, from which each vas deferens begins. Suspended on both sides of and 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 organ (male or female) includes internal and external reproductive organs.

Gonads

Primary reproductive organs; testes in males, ovaries in females