1. THE MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM Structures Functions Problems Associated

2. STRUCTURES EXTERNAL Penis Scrotum INTERNAL Testes Various Passageways Seminal Vesicles Epididymis Prostate Gland Cowper’s Gland Urethra

3. Functions of External Structures SCROTUM: external skin sac that holds the testicles –Regulates temperature of sperm PENIS: tube shaped organ that extends from the trunk of the body just above the testes –Spongy tissue filled with blood vessels –Erection: spongy tissues fill with blood

4. Functions of Internal Structures TESTES: the male sex glands; regulates hormones to produce sperm TESTOSTERONE: the hormone that gives males their secondary sex characteristics SEMINIFEROUS TUBULES: tiny coiled tubes inside the testicles –Sperm production EPIDIDYMIS: collecting structure –Sperm mature and become capable of motion VAS DEFERENS: cilia move mature sperm toward the urethra to expel from the body

5. Internal Structures Cont. SEMINAL VESICLES: contributes a clear alkaline fluid that nourishes the sperm cells with fructose giving the sperm something to swim in Urethra: Tube within the penis which is a passage way for sperm and urine when semen leaves, muscles contract to close off the bladder. PROSTATE GLAND: secretes a milky fluid containing a variety of substances –Proteins, cholesterol, citric-acid, calcium, buffering salts, various enzymes COWPER’S GLAND : secretes a lubricant to help sperm swim through urethra and into vagina; cleans urethra SEMEN: thick fluid containing sperm and other secretions SPERM: The male sex cell, contains half of the genetic material for a child

6. Problems of the Male System Inguinal Hernia: a separation of tissue that allows part of the intestine to push into the abdominal wall near the top of the scrotum Sterility: the inability to reproduce –Too few sperm, poor quality sperm, environmental hazards, hormonal imbalance, drugs Testicular Cancer: 14-40 Prostate Cancer or Enlarged Prostate

7. Care Regular monthly check-ups Monthly self-exam of testes Wear protective equipment Circumcision- removal of the foreskin of the penis after birth Vasectomy- Cut and tie the vas deferens to cause sterility. Follow good hygiene Practice abstinence before marriage to avoid contracting STDs.