Male Reproductive System
-Urogenital system—reproductive and genital systems share certain
parts (urethra)
- FUNCTIONS
Produce male gametes
Transfer gametes by the copulatory organ
Produce male hormones
Testes are the primary sex organs, this is where the sperm cells
are produced
Sperm cells are formed in the seminiferous tubules which join
together to form the epididymis where the sperm cells are
stored until they reach maturity and gain motility.
Epididymis leads to the vas deferens which leads to the urethra
in the penis
- Three glands that produce secretions that form semen
1. Seminal vesical – lies behind and below the bladder, and
release a fluid rich in protein and fructose into the vas deferens.
This fluid comprises 60% of the semen and serves as a source
of nourishment for the sperm cells.
2. Prostate gland – lies behinds the bladder and releases a milky
secretion that comprises 30% of semen. It stimulates
movement of the mature sperm cells and in responsible for the
alkalinity of the semen. This neutralizes any acidity in the
urethra
3. Glands of Cowper – release a thick clear secretion that assists in
neutralizing acidity and lubricates the end of the penis in
preparation for intercourse
Circumcision
Surgical procedure that removes the foreskin and is done mostly for
hygiene reasons.