The male reproductive system consists of primary organs (gonads) and accessory organs that together produce, store, and deliver sperm.
The testes are the male gonads, located outside the body cavity in the scrotum. The scrotum maintains a temperature approximately lower than core body temperature — a requirement for viable spermatogenesis.
Each testis contains:
A long, coiled tube resting on the posterior surface of each testis. Sperm undergo functional maturation here, gaining motility over approximately 2–4 weeks. Sperm are also stored in the epididymis.
A muscular tube that carries mature sperm from the epididymis toward the ejaculatory duct during ejaculation.
Formed by the union of the vas deferens and the duct of the seminal vesicle. It passes through the prostate gland and opens into the urethra.
The final common pathway for both urine and semen. During ejaculation, a sphincter prevents urine from mixing with semen.
| Gland | Secretion | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Seminal Vesicles | Thick, alkaline fluid (~60% of semen) | Contains fructose (energy for sperm), prostaglandins (stimulate uterine contractions), and clotting proteins |
| Prostate Gland | Milky, slightly acidic fluid (~30% of semen) | Contains citrate, zinc, and enzymes that activate and nourish sperm |
| Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper's Glands) | Clear, alkaline mucus | Neutralises residual urine acidity in the urethra before ejaculation; provides lubrication |
The male reproductive system is regulated by a hormonal axis:
Semen = sperm + secretions from seminal vesicles + prostate + bulbourethral glands