Notes from JEE topper
The male reproductive systems
The male reproductive system is a complex system responsible for the production, storage, and delivery of sperm. It includes several organs and structures, each with a specific role. Here is an overview of the male reproductive system for NEET students:
- Testes (Testicles):
The testes are the primary male reproductive organs.
They are responsible for producing sperm and testosterone, the male sex hormone.
Spermatogenesis (the production of sperm) occurs in the seminiferous tubules within the testes.
- Epididymis:
The epididymis is a coiled tube located on the back of each testicle.
It serves as a storage and maturation site for sperm.
During their stay in the epididymis, sperm gain the ability to swim and fertilize an egg.
- Vas Deferens:
The vas deferens is a muscular tube that connects the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct.
It transports mature sperm from the epididymis to the urethra during ejaculation.
- Ejaculatory Duct:
The ejaculatory duct is formed by the union of the vas deferens and the seminal vesicle duct.
It passes through the prostate gland and empties into the urethra.
It adds seminal fluid to the sperm to form semen.
- Prostate Gland:
The prostate gland is a walnut-sized gland located below the bladder.
It produces a milky fluid that contributes to the seminal fluid.
Prostatic fluid contains enzymes that help activate sperm.
- Seminal Vesicles:
The seminal vesicles are paired glands located behind the bladder.
They secrete a viscous fluid rich in fructose, which provides energy for sperm.
Seminal vesicle fluid also contains substances that enhance sperm motility.
- Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper’s Glands):
These small glands are located near the base of the penis.
They produce a clear, slippery fluid that lubricates the urethra and neutralizes acidic urine residue, creating a more favorable environment for sperm.
- Urethra:
The urethra is a duct that runs through the penis.
It serves a dual purpose for the male reproductive and urinary systems.
During ejaculation, it carries semen out of the body through the urethral meatus.
- Penis:
The penis is the male external reproductive organ.
It contains three columns of erectile tissue (two corpora cavernosa and one corpus spongiosum).
During sexual arousal, the erectile tissue fills with blood, causing an erection, which is necessary for sexual intercourse.
- Scrotum:
The scrotum is a pouch of skin and muscle that houses the testes.
It helps regulate the temperature of the testes, keeping them slightly cooler than body temperature, which is essential for sperm production.
