Male Reproductive System

• Testosterone is secreted by Leydig's cells in the interstitial tissue between the seminiferous tubules.
• The male reproductive system consists of the penis, scrotum, testes, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate gland, cowper's glands, urethra, and ejaculatory ducts.
• Testes:

  • Definition: The testes are the primary male reproductive organs located in the scrotum.
  • Function: The testes produce sperm through a process called spermatogenesis and secrete male sex hormones, primarily testosterone.
• Scrotum:

  • Definition: The scrotum is a pouch of skin and muscle that houses and protects the testes.
  • Function: The scrotum helps regulate the temperature of the testes, ensuring that it is slightly lower than the body temperature for optimal sperm production.
• Epididymis:

  • Definition: The epididymis is a coiled tube located on the surface of each testis.
  • Function: Sperm produced in the testes mature and are stored in the epididymis. It also helps transport sperm from the testes to the vas deferens.
• • Vas Deferens:
  • Definition: The vas deferens is a muscular tube that carries sperm from the epididymis to the urethra.
  • Function: During ejaculation, the vas deferens propels sperm towards the urethra for eventual release.
• Seminal Vesicles:

  • Definition: The seminal vesicles are glands located near the base of the bladder.
  • Function: Seminal vesicles produce a significant portion of the seminal fluid, providing nutrients and substances that nourish and support sperm.
• Prostate Gland:

  • Definition: The prostate gland is a small, walnut-sized gland located below the bladder.
  • Function: The prostate secretes a milky fluid that contributes to semen. This fluid helps neutralize the acidic environment of the urethra and the vagina, enhancing sperm viability.
• Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper's Glands):

  • Definition: The bulbourethral glands are small glands located below the prostate.
  • Function: These glands produce a clear, slippery fluid that is released into the urethra during sexual arousal. This fluid helps lubricate the urethra and neutralize any residual acidity.
• Urethra:

  • Definition: The urethra is a duct that runs through the penis and carries urine and semen out of the body.
  • Function: The urethra serves as a common passage for both urine and semen, but not simultaneously.
• Penis:

  • Definition: The penis is the external male organ involved in sexual intercourse.
  • Function: The penis delivers semen into the female reproductive tract during ejaculation. It also contains erectile tissue that becomes engorged with blood during sexual arousal, resulting in an erection.