The male reproductive system consists of several organs acting together to produce functional spermatozoa (sperm), and to deliver these spermatozoa to the female reproductive tract. This system is located in two separate areas, one higher in the brain and pituitary; the other in our lower parts, beneath the navel. It all starts in the brain, where sexual thoughts are generated, as well as stimulus that is given to the nearby pituitary gland to release hormones to stimulate the testis. Spermatozoa, the haploid germ cells, are produced in the testis and undergo maturational changes as they travel through the epididymis. The vas deferens transports spermatozoa from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct within the prostate. Secretions of the seminal vesicles and the prostate empty together with the sperm into the prostatic urethra, which will carry the semen toward the penis. Secretions from the bulbourethral gland contribute to the ejaculate as the mixture exits the body through the penile urethra. The entire system is dependent on testosterone, also produced in the testis, and its regulation by the pituitary andhypothalamus. Knowledge of the anatomy and embryological origins of the components of the male reproductive tract is important in developing a basic and thorough understanding of the system as a whole. (adapted from the Handbook of Andrology)
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Views of Male Reproductive Organs through the Microscope
The pituitary produces hormones that stimulate the testis
The testis produces the hormone testosterone, which along with other hormones maintains spermatogenesis and the production of spermatozoa
Epididymis stores sperm and helps them mature
Semen consists of spermatozoa that are transported first in epididymal fluids into the prostatic urethral tube that passes through the prostate gland. During ejaculation, secretions of the prostate, seminal vesicles and bulbourethral gland are added, completing the content of semen, which passes through the penile urethra.
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Last updated 11/07/2013