Chp. 7 Organs of the Male Reproductive System

epididymis

coiled duct atop each of the testes that provides for storage, transit, and maturation of spermatozoa; continuous with the vas deferens

semen

composed of sperm, seminal fluids, and other secretions

prostate gland

encircles the upper end of the urethra. The prostate gland secretes a fluid that aids in the movement of the sperm and ejaculation.

glans penis

enlarged tip on the end of the penis

scrotum

sac suspended on both sides of and just behind the penis. The testes are enclosed in the scrotum

sperm (spermatozoon, pl. spermatozoa)

the microscopic male germ cell, which, when united with the ovum, produces a zygote (fertilized egg) that with subsequent development becomes an embryo

testosterone

the principal male sex hormone. Its chief function is to stimulate the development of the male reproductive organs and secondary sex characteristics such as facial hair.

seminal vesicles

two main glands located at the base of the bladder that open into the vas deferens. The glands secrete a thick fluid, which forms part of the semen.

seminiferous tubules

approximately 900 coiled tubes within the testes in which spermatogenesis occurs

penis

male organ of urination and copulation (sexual intercourse)

prepuce

fold of skin covering the glans penis in uncircumcised males (foreskin of the penis)

vas deferens, ductus deferens, or seminal duct

duct carrying the sperm from the epididymis to the urethra. The spermatic cord encloses each vas deferens with nerves, lymphatics, arteries, and veins. (The urethra also connects with the urinary bladder and carries urine outside the body. A circular muscle constricts during intercourse to prevent urination.)

testis, testicle (pl. testes, or testicles)

primary male sex organs, paired, oval-shaped, and enclosed in a sac called the scrotum. The testes produce spermatozoa (sperm cells) and the hormone testosterone.

genitalia (genitals)

reproductive organs (male or female)