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.