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Learn about the male reproductive system, its functions, and common disorders like testicular and prostate cancer. Understand the process of sperm production and the components of semen.
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Male Reproductive System Chapter 16
To produce sperm cells (male reproductive cells) • Begin producing sperm around 12-15 yrs old • Puberty - development and maturation of the reproductive system • Hair develops (pubic region, underarm, arms, legs, chest, face) widening of the shoulders and chest, deepening of the voice, skin oiler, acne develops, increased perspiration, body odor, growth spurt, Adam’s Apple protrudes, testicles drop Function of the Male Reproductive System
1. Testes or Testicles – male sex glands a. Functions (1) to manufacture the male sex hormone testosterone (2) Produce reproductive cells sperm which is produced in the seminiferous tubules • Can produce (roughly) up to 100 million sperm in one day • This number slightly deceases with age External
Scrotum – the sac that hangs outside of the body that holds the testes a. Function –(1) regulates body temperature and (2) protection of the testes • As body temperature increases – the scrotum will hang lower • As body temperature decreases – the scrotum will contract towards the body • Will draw up close to the body during arousal
Epididymis a. Function - where sperm cells are stored for 64 days until mature • So what does this mean? The sperm cells that are in your semen “tonight” were produced 2 months ago b. Location – top to the back of each testicle • Coiled structure – when uncoiled it will stretch to 20 feet in length
Penis – the male sexual reproductive organ a. Functions (1) reproduction (2) pleasure (3) elimination of wastes; urine and semen b. 2 States 1. Erect – hard state • Also known as an errection • Caused by an increases blood flow to the penis • The spongy tissues in the penis fill with blood making it longer, larger, and harder • Often followed by an ejaculation – release of semen from the penis • 1 ejaculation = about 1 teaspoon of fluid • 200-500 million sperm cells in 1 ejaculation • Semen can be released during the soft state pre ejaculation 2. Flaccid – soft state • Also known as the resting state
Glans – tip or head of the penis • Most sensitive ** Shaft – the base or length of the penis Foreskin – excess skin at the glans of the penis Shaft
Vas Deferens – long tube that connects the epididymis with the urethra • Function – passageway and connecter a. Lined with cilia to move sperm along • 18 inches long if extended Internal
Seminal Vesicles – fluid filled pouches • Location – found on both sides of the prostate • Function – (1) fluid helps make the sperm mobile and (2) provides nourishment to sperm cells • Sugary fructose substance; source of energy to make the cells * is a component of semen
Prostate Gland • Location – lies below the bladder and surrounds the urethra • About the size of a chestnut • Function – secretes a milky, alkaline fluid that mixes with sperm * is a component of semen
Cowper’s Gland • Location – directly below the prostate • About pea sized • Function – secretes a clear, sticky fluid to allow a safe passageway for sperm * is a component of semen
Urethra – tube that travels through the center of the penis that is a passageway for semen and urine (not at the same time) • Urinary Bladder – holding area for urine
Fluids from: 1. Seminal Vesicles 2. Prostate Gland 3. Cowper’s Gland And the most important component: 4. Sperm Cells • Contains 23 chromosomes So what makes up semen?
Sterility – the inability to reproduce • Sperm is weak, malformed, sparse, non-existent, unable to join with an ovum • Caused by: a birth defect, exposure to extreme temperatures, exposure to chemicals, exposure to high amounts of radiation, smoking, STIs, vasectomy, and injury • Vasectomy – permanent procedure of sterilization, sealing the vas deferens so sperm cells cannot join with the fluids to make semen. Incisions made into testicles • In office procedure • Cost effective Complications & Occurrences
Testicular Cancer • Signs – swelling, small hard lumps, possible pain in the testicle region • Affects males usually around the ages of 15-34 yrs • Unknown causes – linked to exposure to chemicals, HIV +, genetics • Responsible for 12% of Cancer deaths • White males 5x more likely to get then any other race
Prostate Cancer • Signs – pain in the lower abdomen and frequent urination • Detection – Rectal exam • Affects males 50+ yrs • No known cause – linked to hereditary, male genetic flaws, diet high in animal fat • Targets African American Men • 2nd leading cause of death of men
Nocturnal Emission – aka “wet dream” • An ejaculation that occurs during sleep • Uncontrollable, unpreventable, subconscious