Sexual anatomy

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Sexual Anatomy refers to the physical and biological features associated with sex and reproduction. The sexual anatomy of humans is unique among species, and is characterized by a high degree of sexual dimorphism.

Male Sexual Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The primary structures of the male sexual anatomy include the penis, the scrotum, and the testes. The penis serves as both a sex organ and a conduit for urine; it is made up of the shaft and the glans. The scrotum is a pouch of skin that houses the testes, which produce sperm and testosterone, the primary male sex hormone.

Female Sexual Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The female sexual anatomy is characterized by two primary internal structures: the uterus and the ovaries. The uterus is a muscular organ that houses the developing fetus during pregnancy. The ovaries produce eggs for fertilization and also release the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Intersex Sexual Anatomy[edit | edit source]

Intersex individuals may have sexual anatomy that does not fit typical definitions of male or female. This can include variations in chromosome patterns, gonads, or genitalia.

Sexual Differentiation[edit | edit source]

Sexual differentiation in humans includes the processes by which male or female sexual anatomy develops in the womb. These processes are largely driven by hormones, but can also be influenced by environmental factors.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD