Male Reproductive
Male Reproductive System
Testes:
Male reproductive organs responsible for producing sperm and testosterone.
Seminiferous Tubules:
Tubular structures within the testes where sperm production (spermatogenesis) takes place.
Efferent Ductules:
Ducts that carry sperm from the testes to the epididymis.
Epididymis:
A coiled tube connected to the testes where sperm matures and is stored.
Seminal Vesicles:
Glandular structures that produce a significant portion of the seminal fluid, providing nutrients and support for sperm.
Prostate Gland:
A gland that produces a milky fluid that contributes to semen, providing nutrients and helping with sperm motility.
Bulbourethral or Cowper’s Gland:
Glands that secrete a clear, lubricating fluid into the urethra during sexual arousal to neutralize acidity.
Sperm - Acrosome, Head, Midpiece, Tail (Flagellum):
Acrosome: A cap-like structure at the head of a sperm cell containing enzymes to facilitate penetration of the egg
Head: Contains the genetic material (nucleus) of the sperm
Midpiece: Contains mitochondria, providing energy for the sperm
Tail (Flagellum): The whip-like structure that propels the sperm forward
Cremaster & Dartos Muscle:
Cremaster Muscle: A muscle that helps control the position of the testes in response to temperature changes.
Dartos Muscle: A smooth muscle that contracts or relaxes to regulate the temperature of the testes by altering the surface area of the scrotum
Scrotal Septum:
A wall of connective tissue that divides the scrotum into two compartments, each housing one testis.
Scrotum:
The external pouch of skin and muscle that houses the testes.
Semen:
The fluid expelled during ejaculation, containing sperm and secretions from the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands.
Circumcision - Foreskin:
Circumcision: Surgical removal of the foreskin, the fold of skin covering the head of the penis.
Impotence:
Also known as erectile dysfunction, the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity.
Vasectomy:
A surgical procedure for male sterilization, involving the cutting or sealing of the vas deferens to prevent sperm from reaching the semen