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AP - Male Repo
Anatomy And Physiology Male Reproductive System
Term | Definition |
---|---|
Testes | The primary reproductive organs in males, responsible for producing sperm and hormones, particularly testosterone. |
Scrotum | A sac of skin that hangs outside the body, holding the testes; it helps regulate the temperature of the testes. |
Seminiferous Tubules | Highly coiled tubes within the testes where spermatogenesis occurs. |
Epididymis | A long, coiled duct on the back of the testis where sperm mature and are stored until ejaculation. |
Vas Deferens | The duct that transports mature sperm from the epididymis to the urethra during ejaculation. |
Ejaculatory Ducts | Tubes through which sperm travel from the vas deferens to the urethra. |
Urethra | The tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body, and in males, also conveys semen during ejaculation. |
Seminal Vesicles | Glands that secrete a fluid that is a major component of semen; it provides a source of energy for sperm and aids their motility. |
Prostate Gland | A gland located below the bladder that produces some of the fluid that makes up semen, which nourishes and transports sperm. |
Bulbourethral Glands | Also known as Cowper's glands, they secrete a pre-ejaculate fluid that lubricates the urethra for sperm to pass through. |
Semen | The fluid that contains sperm along with secretions from the prostate, seminal vesicles, and bulbourethral glands. |
Sperm | Male gametes or reproductive cells. |
Spermatogenesis | The process of sperm production, occurring within the seminiferous tubules. |
Testosterone | The primary male sex hormone responsible for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive functions. |
Penis | The male organ used for urination and sexual intercourse; contains the urethra. |
Glans Penis | The conical mass at the end of the penis, commonly referred to as the head, which is highly sensitive. |
Prepuce (Foreskin) | A retractable fold of skin covering the glans of the penis; often removed surgically via circumcision. |
Erection | The process by which the penis becomes enlarged and firm, typically in response to sexual arousal or stimulation. |
Ejaculation | The process of expelling semen from the penis, usually accompanied by orgasm. |
Corpora Cavernosa | Erectile tissue along the length of the penis which fills with blood during sexual arousal, causing an erection. |
Corpus Spongiosum | The mass of spongy tissue surrounding the male urethra within the penis. |
Androgens | Male sex hormones, including testosterone, which are responsible for male physical characteristics and reproductive activity. |
Leydig Cells | Cells in the testes that produce testosterone in response to luteinizing hormone stimulation. |
Sertoli Cells | Cells within the seminiferous tubules that aid in the development of sperm by providing nutrients and hormonal support. |