Male Reproductive System Overview

Male Reproductive System Overview

• Internal Organs: Testicles, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal glands, ejaculatory ducts, prostate gland, bulbourethral glands (Cowper glands).
• Testicles: Two oval-shaped organs located outside the body in the scrotum. Produce testosterone (regulated by LH from the pituitary gland) and sperm.
• Epididymis: Coiled structure attached to the testicles. Site for sperm maturation and storage.
• Vas Deferens: Tubular organ carrying sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct.
• Seminal Glands: Pair structures behind the bladder and above the prostate. Secrete alkaline fluid with fructose for sperm nourishment (2/3 of the sperm).
• Ejaculatory Ducts: Formed by the union of the seminal vesicles and vas deferens, piercing the prostate and emptying into the urethra.
• Prostate Gland: Largest male genital gland below the bladder. Secretes proteolytic enzymes for seminal fluid consistency. Three zones: central, peripheral, and transitional.
• Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper Glands): Accessory glands above the bulb of the penis. Secrete lubricating fluids.

Female Reproductive System Overview

• Internal Organs: Vagina, cervix, uterus, uterine (Fallopian) tubes, ovaries.
• Ovaries: Paired female gonads; produce estrogen and progesterone, and oocytes for fertilization.
• Uterus: Muscular organ where the fertilized egg implants and develops. Divided into the fundus, body, and cervix.
• Uterine (Fallopian) Tubes: Extend laterally from the uterus, near the ovaries. Captures and transports the ovum to the uterus for potential fertilization.
• Vagina: Hollow muscular tube connecting the vulva to the uterus. Passageway for childbirth.
• Cervix: Lower portion of the uterus, which connects to the vagina. Facilitates sperm passage and maintains sterility.

General Reproductive System Notes

• Temperature: Optimal temperature for spermatogenesis is 2-4°C lower than normal body temperature (maintained by the scrotum).
• External Organs: Penis, scrotum (male); vulva (female), including labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, vaginal opening.
• Perineum: Area between the anus and the scrotum (male).
• Ligaments: Broad ligament, cardinal ligaments, and uterosacral ligaments support the internal female reproductive organs. Round ligaments maintain the anteverted position of the uterus.
• Vulva: External female genitalia.
• Clitoris: Erectile organ responsible for sexual sensation (similar to the male penis).
• Vestibular Bulbs: Similar to male corpus spongiosum, sensitive erectile tissues.
• Vestibular Glands (Bartholin's Glands): Release lubricating fluids during sexual intercourse.
• pH: Sperm is alkaline; the vagina is acidic. Sperm's alkalinity neutralizes vaginal acidity.

Additional Details.

• Ligaments: Support various pelvic organs; maintain correct positions.
• Internal vs. External Genitalia: Male and female have different sets, and each is specific in function.

Explore the internal organs of the male reproductive system, including testicles, epididymis, and prostate gland. This quiz delves into their structures, functions, and anatomical relationships. Test your knowledge on how these organs contribute to male fertility and health.