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)