Male Reproductive System Overview

Study Notes

Testis: Main male reproductive organ responsible for sperm production.
Scrotum: Regulates testicular temperature for optimal sperm development.
Epididymis: Stores and matures sperm, preparing it for ejaculation.
Testosterone: Crucial hormone for developing male secondary sexual characteristics.
Seminal Vesicles: Produce seminal fluid, a key component of semen.
Vas Deferens: Muscular tube transporting sperm from the epididymis to the pelvic cavity.
Ejaculatory Ducts: Join with the prostate to mix sperm with fluid, forming semen.
Urethra: Tube carrying urine from the bladder; also transmits semen during ejaculation.
Prostate Gland: Contributes additional fluids to semen, aiding sperm nourishment.
Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper's Glands): Secrete a lubricating fluid that neutralizes acidity in the urethra.

Physical Examination: Helps assess overall health and specific reproductive issues.
Blood Test: Can evaluate hormone levels, including testosterone and other indicators.
Urine Test: Assesses for infections or abnormalities in the reproductive system.
Ultrasound: Imaging technique for examining the organs and structures of the reproductive system.
X-ray: Used in certain cases to view structures within the reproductive system.
CT Scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the reproductive organs.
MRI: Non-invasive imaging used to get detailed images of soft tissues.
Biopsy: Involves removing tissue samples to check for diseases, including cancer.
Digital Rectal Exam: Checks for prostate abnormalities through rectal palpation.
PSA Test: Measures levels of prostate-specific antigen to screen for prostate conditions.

Prostate palpation helps detect enlargement or abnormalities during exams.
Blockage in the vas deferens can prevent sperm ejaculation.
Low sperm count correlates with high estrogen levels, while high sperm count aligns with high testosterone levels.
Testosterone levels typically decline with age.

Ovary: Primary organ producing eggs.
Vagina: Muscular tube connecting the uterus to external structures.
Menstruation: Monthly shedding of the uterine lining when fertilization does not occur.
Fallopian Tube: Site of fertilization for egg and sperm.
Endometrium: Uterine lining that thickens during the menstrual cycle and sheds during menstruation.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Triggers ovulation, released by the pituitary gland.
Progesterone: Prepares the uterus for potential pregnancy.
Estrogen: Regulates the menstrual cycle.
Corpus Luteum: Structure that produces progesterone post-ovulation.
Endometriosis: Condition involving endometrial tissue growth outside the uterus.
Pap Smear: Screening procedure for cervical cancer.
Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus.

Occurs when hormone levels deviate from normal ranges, affecting bodily functions.
Hormones regulate mood, temperature, metabolism, heart rate, sleep, growth, and stress responses.
Major conditions from hormonal imbalances include:
- Diabetes
- Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
- Adrenal Insufficiency
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Hypogonadism

Maintain a balanced diet, high in fiber and low in fats for overall reproductive health.
Stay well-hydrated to support bodily functions and reproductive health.