The male reproductive system is responsible for producing, storing, and transporting sperm and hormones needed for reproduction.
It consists of both internal and external organs that work together to facilitate these functions.
Here's a detailed look at the male reproductive system and its organs, classified as either primary or accessory organs:
Primary Organ:
1. Testes (testicles):
Located in the scrotum, the testes are the primary male reproductive organs.
They produce sperm (spermatozoa) and secrete testosterone.
Inside the testes, seminiferous tubules are where sperm is produced, while Leydig cells in surrounding tissue produce testosterone.
Accessory Organs:
Internal accessory organs:
2. Epididymis:
A coiled tube behind each testicle, it stores and matures sperm after they leave the seminiferous tubules.
3. Vas deferens (ductus deferens):
A muscular tube that transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct during ejaculation.
4. Seminal vesicles:
Paired glands near the bladder that produce a thick, fructose-rich fluid, which nourishes sperm and forms semen.
5. Prostate gland:
A walnut-sized gland beneath the bladder that secretes an alkaline fluid. This fluid helps neutralize the acidic environment of the female reproductive tract and improves sperm motility.
6. Bulbourethral glands (Cowper's glands):
Small glands under the prostate that release pre-ejaculate fluid, which lubricates the urethra and neutralizes any acidic urine.
External accessory organs:
7. Penis:
The male organ for sexual intercourse and urine excretion. It contains erectile tissue that fills with blood during arousal, enabling sperm delivery during intercourse.
8. Scrotum:
A pouch of skin holding the testes outside the body to maintain a lower temperature for optimal sperm production.