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The Reproductive System
The Reproductive System
Leydig’s Cell
-Responsible for
producing of the male
hormone testosterone.
Male Internal Structures
Epididymis
seminiferoustubule of each testis
leads to a tightly coiled tube, the
epididymis
Approximately 20 ft long
Site of sperm maturation and storage
Responsible for conducting sperm
from the testis to the vas deferens
Contains smooth muscle to
propel sperm during ejaculation
Sperm are immobile and
encapable of fertilization as they
passed or are stored at the
epididymis level
Ittakes 12-20 days to travel the
length of the epididymis
A total of 64 days to reach
maturity
Aspermia – absence of
sperm
Bulbourethral Glands
- 2 bulbourethral or Cowper’s gland lie beside
the prostate gland and by short ducts empty
into the urethra
Secrete an alkaline fluid that helps
counteract the acid secretions of
the urethra and ensure the
passage of spermatozoa
Produce small droplets of fluid
during sexual activity that
neutralizes the acidity of the male
urethra and aid in the transport of
sperm
5% semen
Urethra
a hollow tube leading from the base of the
bladder, which after passing through the
prostate gland continues to the outside
through the shaft and glans of the penis
3 sections
Prostatic
Within the prostate
Membranous
Within the urogenital diaphragm
Penile (spongy)
Within the penis
The seminal vesicles, prostate gland
and Cowper’s gland produce a liquid
called a seminal plasma.
Seminal Plasma
Aids in the transport of sperm
Provides energizing nutrients for
the sperm
Contains form of sugar – fructose,
mucous, salts, water, base buffers
and coagulators to aid the sperm in
their journey.
The sperm collectively make up the semen.