Reproductive System (Male)

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary terms related to medical terminology and the male reproductive system, including definitions and explanations of disorders.

Circumcision

The removal of the foreskin of the penis.

Coitus

Another term for sexual intercourse.

Cryptorchidism

The failure of the testes to descend into the scrotal sac.

Embryo

The stage of fetal development from implantation to three months after conception.

Fertilization

The union of the egg and sperm.

Fetus

A developing human from three months after conception until birth.

Puberty

The age when reproductive organs become functional; differs from person to person.

Zygote

A cell formed by two gametes.

Hydrocele

A fluid-filled swelling, usually around a testicle.

Gameteogenesis

The formation of sex cells.

Vasectomy

A surgical procedure that cuts the vas deferens.

Scrotum

The sac of skin that contains the testes and helps to protect and keep them at the most optimal temperature for sperm production.

Testes

The male reproductive organs that produce sperm and testosterone. They are located in the scrotum, about the size of an egg, and play a crucial role in male fertility.

Seminiferous Tubules

Convoluted tubes within the testes where sperm is produced through the process of spermatogenesis.

Epididymis

A coiled tube located posterior to each testis where sperm matures and is stored until ejaculation. It connects the testes to the vas deferens.

Vas Deferens

A thick-walled muscular tube that transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct during ejaculation.

Seminal Vesicles

The glands that produce a fluid rich in sugars to nourish sperm and form a significant part of semen. They are about the size of human thumb.

Urethra

The tube that carries urine from the bladder and sperm from the reproductive tract to the outside of the body. In males, it serves both urinary and reproductive functions.

Prostate Gland

A gland that surrounds the urethra and produces a fluid that nourishes and protects sperm, contributing to semen volume. It’s about the size of chestnut and a hotspot for developing cancer.

Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper’s Glands)

The small glands, about the size of a pea, located at the base of the penis that secrete a clear fluid prior to ejaculation. This fluid helps to lubricate the urethra and neutralize acidity, facilitating sperm passage.

Penis

The male external reproductive organ that delivers sperm during sexual intercourse and also serves as the vessel for urine. It consists of erectile tissue that can fill with blood to achieve an erection.

Prepuce (Foreskin)

The fold of skin that covers the glans of the penis. It can be removed through circumcision and serves to protect the sensitive area.

Pubic Bone

The bone located at the front of the pelvis, protecting/supporting the lower part of the torso and forming the base for the attachment of the reproductive structures.

Ejaculatory Ducts

The ducts that transport sperm from the vas deferens to the urethra, allowing for the passage of semen during ejaculation.

Epididymitis

An infection of the epididymis usually caused by STIs, UTIs, and prostate infections.

Erectile dysfunction

Failure for the penis to become rigid enough for intercourse.

Benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH)

Enlarged prostate causing dysuria and urinary retention.

Prostate cancer

Tumor in the prostate, usually asymptomatic until large enough or spreads.