Male Reproductive System

Male Reproductive System - General Overview

  • This system is designed to produce and deliver sperm.
  • The main organs of the male reproductive system include the testes, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and the penis.

The Testes

  • These are the male sex glands where sperm and testosterone are produced.
  • Each testis is housed in a sack of skin called the scrotum, located outside the body to maintain a lower temperature necessary for sperm production.

The Epididymis

  • The epididymis is the long, coiled tube that rests on the backside of each testis.
  • It functions to transport and store sperm cells that are produced in the testes, also helping them to mature.

Vas Deferens, Seminal Vesicles, and Prostate Gland

  • The vas deferens is a long muscular tube that carries mature sperm to the urethra.
  • The seminal vesicles and prostate gland add fluids to the sperm to keep them alive and help them move, creating semen.

The Penis

  • The penis has two main roles: to carry semen and urine from the body.
  • It has a special tube, the urethra, that can carry sperm and also urine from the bladder.

The Male Reproductive Hormones

  • The male reproductive hormones are primarily produced by the pituitary gland.
  • These hormones are luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
  • LH stimulates the production of testosterone, which is crucial for sperm production and the development of male characteristics such as deeper voice and body hair.
  • FSH works with testosterone to produce mature sperm.

Problems and Disorders of the Male Reproductive System

  • This system can be affected by a variety of conditions including sexually transmitted infections, prostate cancer and testicular cancer.
  • Infertility is a common issue that can be caused by low sperm count, poor sperm quality, or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm.

Maintaining a Healthy Male Reproductive System

  • Good general health is important for maintaining a healthy male reproductive system.
  • Regular check-ups, safe sex practices, self-examinations for changes in the testicles, eating a healthy diet and avoiding substance misuse can all contribute to reproductive health.