1. Ch. 18 Male Reproductive System

2. Reproduction  Reproduction results from the union of 2 specialized sex cells- one from the male and one from the female.  What are these called?

3. Functions of Male Reproductive System  Production & storage of sperm  Transfer of sperm to the female’s body  Testosterone (the male sex hormone) production- signals changes in male body that signal maturity (voice getting deeper, broadening of shoulders, facial hair, etc.)

4. External Male Reproductive Organs  Testes- 2 small glands that produce sperm  Penis- organ that extends from the trunk of the body just above the testes  Scrotum- external skin sac  Semen- thick fluid containing sperm and other secretions from the male reproductive system

5. Internal Male Reproductive Organs  Vas deferens  Urethra  Seminal vesicles  Prostate gland

6. Male Reproductive System Diagram

7. Fertilization  The joining of a sperm cell & egg cell can result if ejaculation occurs during sexual intercourse.  Ejaculation- a series of muscular contractions that happen at the height of sexual arousal

8. Sperm  Scrotum protects sperm by keeping it slightly below normal body temperature  When a male begins to produce sperm, he may experience nocturnal emissions that occur when sperm is released during sleep  300-400 million sperm in each ejaculation

9. Problems  Sterility- too few sperm or sperm of poor quality  Testicular Cancer- usually in males 14- 40.

10. Review Questions  What is the function of the testes?  What are the symptoms of testicular cancer?  Describe the path that sperm follow from the time they’re formed until they leave the body.  What is semen comprised of?