Male genitalia

Male genitalia refers to the external and internal sex organs that are part of the reproductive system in males. These organs are involved in the production and delivery of sperm, and the production of sex hormones.

Anatomy

The male genitalia consist of both external and internal structures. The external structures, also known as the male external genitalia, include the penis, the scrotum, and the testes. The internal structures, also known as the male internal genitalia, include the epididymis, the vas deferens, the seminal vesicles, and the prostate gland.

External Genitalia

The penis is the male organ for sexual intercourse. It has three parts: the root, which attaches to the wall of the abdomen; the body, or shaft; and the glans, which is the cone-shaped end of the penis. The urethra runs through the center of the penis, allowing the passage of urine and semen.

The scrotum is a sac-like organ made of skin and muscles that houses the testes. It is located behind the penis and in front of the anus. The scrotum's primary function is to maintain the testes at a temperature slightly lower than the body temperature.

The testes (or testicles) are oval organs about the size of large olives that lie in the scrotum, secured at either end by a structure called the spermatic cord. The testes are responsible for making testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, and for generating sperm.

Internal Genitalia

The epididymis is a long, coiled tube that rests on the backside of each testicle. It transports and stores sperm cells that are produced in the testes.

The vas deferens is a long, muscular tube that travels from the epididymis into the pelvic cavity, to just behind the bladder. The vas deferens transports mature sperm to the urethra in preparation for ejaculation.

The seminal vesicles are sac-like structures attached to the vas deferens near the base of the bladder. They produce a sugar-rich fluid (fructose) that provides sperm with a source of energy and helps with their motility.

The prostate gland is a walnut-sized structure that is located below the urinary bladder in front of the rectum. The prostate gland contributes additional fluid to the ejaculate to help nourish the sperm.

Function

The primary function of the male genitalia is to produce and deliver sperm for the purpose of fertilization. The secondary function is the production of sex hormones, primarily testosterone, which plays a key role in male sexual development and function.

See also

• Human reproduction
• Sexual intercourse
• Erection
• Ejaculation

Male genitalia Resources
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