CHAPTER III - HORMONAL AND REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTIONS OF THE MALE Flashcards
- What are the functions of semen in reproduction?
- Sperm Transport and Protection
- Nutritional Support
- Fertility Factors
- What are the components of sperm structure?
- Head
- Midpiece
- Tail (Flagellum)
- What are the three stages of spermatogenesis?
- Spermatocytogenesis
- Meiosis
- Spermiogenesis
- What are the primary functions of testosterone?
- Sexual Development and Reproduction
- Secondary Sexual Characteristics
- Bone Density and Red Blood Cell Production
- What are the physiological stages of the male sexual act?
- Sexual Arousal
- Erection
- Ejaculation
- What are the major physical changes that occur during male puberty?
- Primary Sexual Characteristics
- Secondary Sexual Characteristics
- Increased Libido and Sexual Behavior
- What are the effects of andropause?
- Physical Changes (decreased muscle mass, increased body fat)
- Sexual Function Changes (reduced libido, erectile dysfunction)
- Mood and Cognitive Changes (irritability, depression, reduced cognitive function)
- The fluid that provides sperm with an optimal environment for survival and fertilization.
Semen
- The part of the sperm that contains the nucleus and enzymes to penetrate the egg.
Head
- The powerhouse of the sperm, filled with mitochondria for energy production.
Midpiece
- The structure responsible for sperm motility, allowing it to swim toward the egg.
Tail (Flagellum)
- The process by which immature germ cells develop into mature sperm.
Spermatogenesis
- The stage of spermatogenesis where diploid cells divide to form primary spermatocytes.
Spermatocytogenesis
- The process in spermatogenesis that reduces chromosome number by half.
Meiosis
- The final stage of spermatogenesis where spermatids mature into spermatozoa.
Spermiogenesis
- The hormone secreted by the Leydig cells to regulate male sexual development.
Testosterone
- The hormone that stimulates Sertoli cells to nourish developing sperm.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
- The hormone that stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
- The structure responsible for sperm production inside the testes.
Seminiferous Tubules
- The gland that produces a fluid to neutralize vaginal acidity, aiding sperm survival.
Prostate Gland
- The paired glands that secrete fructose-rich fluid to provide sperm with energy.
Seminal Vesicles
- The period when testosterone levels increase, leading to male sexual maturity.
Puberty
- The process where nitric oxide triggers blood vessel dilation, leading to an erection.
Sexual Arousal
- The structures in the penis that fill with blood during an erection.
Corpora Cavernosa and Corpus Spongiosum
- The nervous system that controls ejaculation.
Sympathetic Nervous System
- A common condition where men have difficulty maintaining an erection.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- The medical term for low sperm count.
Oligospermia
- The term for reduced sperm motility.
Asthenospermia
- The gradual decline in testosterone levels that occurs with aging.
Andropause
- The therapy used to treat low testosterone levels in men.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
- What are the major functions of the male reproductive system?
- Spermatogenesis
- Hormone secretion
- Sperm transport
- Fertilization
- What are the components of the male reproductive system?
- Testes
- Epididymis
- Vas deferens
- Seminal vesicles
- Prostate gland
- Bulbourethral glands
- Penis
- What are the two major functions of the testes?
- Spermatogenesis
- Testosterone production
- What is the name of the tightly coiled structures within the testes where sperm is produced?
Seminiferous Tubules
- What are the types of cells found in the seminiferous tubules?
- Spermatogenic cells
- Sertoli cells
- What type of cells provide structural and nutritional support for developing sperm?
Sertoli Cells
- What cells in the testes produce testosterone?
Leydig Cells
- What are the stages of spermatogenesis?
- Spermatogonia → Spermatocytes → Spermatids → Spermatozoa
- What is the final stage of sperm maturation?
Spermiogenesis
- What are the components of a mature sperm cell?
- Head (contains nucleus and acrosome)
- Midpiece (contains mitochondria for energy)
- Tail (flagellum for motility)
- What is the primary function of the acrosome?
Contains enzymes to penetrate the egg during fertilization
- Where is sperm stored and matured before ejaculation?
Epididymis
- What structure transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct?
Vas Deferens
- What are the accessory glands of the male reproductive system?
- Seminal Vesicles
- Prostate Gland
- Bulbourethral Glands
- What gland produces the majority of semen volume and provides fructose for sperm energy?
Seminal Vesicles
- What gland secretes an alkaline fluid to neutralize acidity in the female reproductive tract?
Prostate Gland
- What gland produces mucus for lubrication during ejaculation?
Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper’s Glands)
- What are the components of semen?
- Sperm cells
- Seminal fluid
- Prostatic secretions
- Mucus from bulbourethral glands
- What hormone stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone?
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
- What hormone stimulates Sertoli cells to support spermatogenesis?
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
- What is the primary male sex hormone?
Testosterone
- What are the functions of testosterone?
- Development of male reproductive organs
- Maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics
- Regulation of libido
- Stimulation of spermatogenesis
- What are the secondary sexual characteristics stimulated by testosterone?
- Increased muscle mass
- Deepening of voice
- Growth of facial and body hair
- What is the pathway of sperm from production to ejaculation?
Seminiferous tubules → Epididymis → Vas deferens → Ejaculatory duct → Urethra
- What are the two phases of ejaculation?
- Emission (movement of sperm and secretions into the urethra)
- Expulsion (forceful ejection of semen)
- What nervous system controls erection?
Parasympathetic Nervous System
- What nervous system controls ejaculation?
Sympathetic Nervous System
- What is the medical term for failure to achieve or maintain an erection?
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- What is the medical term for the inability to produce sperm?
Azoospermia
- What is the condition characterized by low sperm count?
Oligospermia
- What is the term for reduced sperm motility?
Asthenospermia
- What is andropause?
Age-related decline in testosterone levels and male reproductive function
- What is the medical term for inflammation of the prostate gland?
Prostatitis
- What hormone inhibits FSH secretion to regulate sperm production?
Inhibin
- What are the major functions of the penis?
- Urination
- Sexual intercourse
- Ejaculation
- What are the erectile tissues in the penis?
- Corpora Cavernosa (2)
- Corpus Spongiosum (1)
- What condition involves the inability of the testes to descend into the scrotum?
Cryptorchidism
- What are common causes of male infertility?
- Hormonal imbalances
- Structural abnormalities
- Infections
- Exposure to toxins
- Varicocele
- What is the surgical procedure to cut the vas deferens for male sterilization?
Vasectomy
- What is the process of sperm movement toward the egg for fertilization?
Sperm Capacitation
- A 36-year-old male presents with a low sperm count and infertility issues. Lab results show normal testosterone levels but elevated FSH. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?
a) Hyperfunctioning Leydig cells
b) Sertoli cell dysfunction
c) Overproduction of inhibin
d) Excessive testosterone supplementation
b) Sertoli cell dysfunction
- A 25-year-old male has been taking anabolic steroids for muscle gain. He reports testicular shrinkage and low sperm production. What is the MOST likely explanation for these findings?
a) Increased Leydig cell activity
b) Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis
c) Increased secretion of FSH and LH
d) Overproduction of testosterone by the testes
b) Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis
- A man undergoes a vasectomy. Which of the following will remain unchanged after the procedure?
a) Sperm motility
b) Semen volume
c) Sperm count in semen
d) The ability to fertilize an egg
b) Semen volume
- A 40-year-old male is diagnosed with primary hypogonadism. Which of the following lab findings is MOST consistent with this condition?
a) High testosterone, high LH
b) Low testosterone, low LH
c) Low testosterone, high LH
d) High testosterone, low FSH
c) Low testosterone, high LH
- A 50-year-old male is diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Which of the following BEST explains the pathophysiology of his condition?
a) Increased testosterone leading to glandular hypertrophy
b) Excessive androgen receptor activity in Sertoli cells
c) Increased dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causing prostate enlargement
d) Overproduction of FSH leading to prostate inflammation
c) Increased dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causing prostate enlargement
- A 17-year-old male presents with delayed puberty. He has small testes, high-pitched voice, and no facial hair. Lab results show low testosterone and high LH/FSH. What is the MOST likely diagnosis?
a) Klinefelter syndrome
b) Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
c) Cryptorchidism
d) Androgen insensitivity syndrome
a) Klinefelter syndrome
- A patient with erectile dysfunction is prescribed a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor. How does this medication facilitate an erection?
a) Increases sympathetic nervous system activity
b) Stimulates testosterone production
c) Enhances nitric oxide-induced vasodilation
d) Directly activates parasympathetic nerves in the penis
c) Enhances nitric oxide-induced vasodilation
- A newborn male is diagnosed with cryptorchidism. If left untreated, what is the MOST significant long-term complication?
a) Erectile dysfunction
b) Infertility
c) Overproduction of testosterone
d) Decreased prostate function
b) Infertility
- A 45-year-old male presents with fatigue, reduced libido, and weight gain. Blood tests reveal low testosterone and low FSH/LH. Which of the following conditions BEST explains these findings?
a) Primary testicular failure
b) Pituitary dysfunction
c) Overactive Leydig cells
d) Increased inhibin secretion
b) Pituitary dysfunction
- A 60-year-old male with a history of prostate cancer is started on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Which of the following side effects is MOST expected?
a) Increased sperm production
b) Loss of muscle mass
c) Increased libido
d) Increased bone density
b) Loss of muscle mass
- A patient has a disorder that prevents the synthesis of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. What hormonal imbalance is expected?
a) Increased testosterone, decreased dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
b) Decreased testosterone, increased DHT
c) Increased testosterone, increased DHT
d) Decreased testosterone, decreased DHT
a) Increased testosterone, decreased dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
- A 34-year-old male presents with infertility. His semen analysis shows no sperm (azoospermia), but hormone levels are normal. What is the MOST likely cause?
a) Obstruction in the vas deferens
b) Testicular failure
c) Excessive estrogen production
d) Increased inhibin secretion
a) Obstruction in the vas deferens
- A man with high testosterone levels but persistent feminization (gynecomastia) is found to have a genetic mutation affecting androgen receptors. What is the MOST likely condition?
a) Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS)
b) Klinefelter Syndrome
c) Primary hypogonadism
d) Secondary hypogonadism
a) Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS)
- A 70-year-old male presents with urinary retention and difficulty starting urination. Digital rectal exam reveals an enlarged, firm prostate. What is the MOST likely diagnosis?
a) Prostatitis
b) Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
c) Prostate Cancer
d) Epididymitis
b) Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- A 19-year-old male patient presents with delayed puberty, anosmia (lack of smell), and low testosterone. What is the MOST likely diagnosis?
a) Klinefelter syndrome
b) Androgen insensitivity syndrome
c) Kallmann syndrome
d) Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism
c) Kallmann syndrome
- What are the primary functions of semen?
- Sperm Transport and Protection
- Nutritional Support
- Fertility Factors
- What are the structural components of sperm?
- Head (contains nucleus and acrosome)
- Midpiece (contains mitochondria for energy production)
- Tail (flagellum for motility)
- What is the function of the acrosome?
Contains enzymes to break down the egg’s outer layer for fertilization
- Where is sperm stored and matured before ejaculation?
Epididymis
- What is the final stage of sperm maturation?
Spermiogenesis
- What structure transports sperm from the epididymis to the urethra?
Vas Deferens
- What are the three main stages of spermatogenesis?
- Spermatocytogenesis
- Meiosis
- Spermiogenesis
- What cells in the testes are responsible for testosterone production?
Leydig Cells
- What cells provide nourishment and support for developing sperm?
Sertoli Cells
- What hormone stimulates Sertoli cells to support spermatogenesis?
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
- What hormone stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone?
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
- What is the major male sex hormone?
Testosterone
- What are the primary sexual characteristics controlled by testosterone?
- Development of male reproductive organs
- Sperm production
- What are the secondary sexual characteristics influenced by testosterone?
- Facial and body hair growth
- Voice deepening
- Increased muscle mass
- What are the two major functions of the testes?
- Spermatogenesis
- Testosterone secretion
- What are the major male reproductive organs?
- Testes
- Epididymis
- Vas Deferens
- Seminal Vesicles
- Prostate Gland
- Bulbourethral Glands
- Penis
- What accessory gland produces the majority of semen?
Seminal Vesicles
- What gland produces an alkaline fluid to neutralize vaginal acidity?
Prostate Gland
- What gland secretes mucus for lubrication during ejaculation?
Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper’s Glands)
- What structure in the testes is responsible for sperm production?
Seminiferous Tubules
- What is the pathway of sperm from production to ejaculation?
Seminiferous Tubules → Epididymis → Vas Deferens → Ejaculatory Duct → Urethra
- What are the physiological stages of the male sexual act?
- Sexual Arousal
- Erection
- Ejaculation
- What nervous system controls erection?
Parasympathetic Nervous System
- What nervous system controls ejaculation?
Sympathetic Nervous System
- What is the primary chemical involved in causing an erection?
Nitric Oxide (NO)
- What erectile tissues fill with blood during an erection?
- Corpora Cavernosa (2)
- Corpus Spongiosum (1)
- What is the term for the inability to achieve or maintain an erection?
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- What is the term for an abnormally low sperm count?
Oligospermia
- What is the term for reduced sperm motility?
Asthenospermia
- What is the term for the absence of sperm in semen?
Azoospermia
- What is andropause?
The gradual decline in testosterone levels with aging
- What are the symptoms of andropause?
- Fatigue
- Reduced libido
- Loss of muscle mass
- Depression and irritability
- What is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) used for?
To treat low testosterone levels in aging males
- What is the function of inhibin?
Inhibits FSH secretion to regulate sperm production
- What is the most common cause of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)?
Excessive Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) stimulation
- What is cryptorchidism?
Failure of the testes to descend into the scrotum
- What is the medical term for the surgical removal of the testes?
Orchiectomy
- What is the surgical procedure for male sterilization?
Vasectomy
- What is the process that enables sperm to become capable of fertilizing an egg?
Sperm Capacitation
- What is the main function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis?
Regulates testosterone and sperm production
- What is the primary function of the acrosome?
Contains enzymes to penetrate the egg during fertilization
- Where is sperm stored and matured before ejaculation?
Epididymis
- What structure transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct?
Vas Deferens
- What are the accessory glands of the male reproductive system?
- Seminal Vesicles
- Prostate Gland
- Bulbourethral Glands
- What gland produces the majority of semen volume and provides fructose for sperm energy?
Seminal Vesicles
- What gland secretes an alkaline fluid to neutralize acidity in the female reproductive tract?
Prostate Gland
- What gland produces mucus for lubrication during ejaculation?
Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper’s Glands)
- What are the components of semen?
- Sperm cells
- Seminal fluid
- Prostatic secretions
- Mucus from bulbourethral glands
- What hormone stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone?
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
- What hormone stimulates Sertoli cells to support spermatogenesis?
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
- What is the primary male sex hormone?
Testosterone
- What are the functions of testosterone?
- Development of male reproductive organs
- Maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics
- Regulation of libido
- Stimulation of spermatogenesis
- What are the secondary sexual characteristics stimulated by testosterone?
- Increased muscle mass
- Deepening of voice
- Growth of facial and body hair
- What is the pathway of sperm from production to ejaculation?
Seminiferous tubules → Epididymis → Vas deferens → Ejaculatory duct → Urethra
- What are the two phases of ejaculation?
- Emission (movement of sperm and secretions into the urethra)
- Expulsion (forceful ejection of semen)
- What nervous system controls erection?
Parasympathetic Nervous System
- What nervous system controls ejaculation?
Sympathetic Nervous System
- What is the medical term for failure to achieve or maintain an erection?
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
- What is the medical term for the inability to produce sperm?
Azoospermia
- What is the condition characterized by low sperm count?
Oligospermia
- What is the term for reduced sperm motility?
Asthenospermia
- What is andropause?
Age-related decline in testosterone levels and male reproductive function
- What is the medical term for inflammation of the prostate gland?
Prostatitis
- What hormone inhibits FSH secretion to regulate sperm production?
Inhibin
- What are the major functions of the penis?
- Urination
- Sexual intercourse
- Ejaculation
- What are the erectile tissues in the penis?
- Corpora Cavernosa (2)
- Corpus Spongiosum (1)
- What condition involves the inability of the testes to descend into the scrotum?
Cryptorchidism
- What are common causes of male infertility?
- Hormonal imbalances
- Structural abnormalities
- Infections
- Exposure to toxins
- Varicocele
- What is the surgical procedure to cut the vas deferens for male sterilization?
Vasectomy
- What is the process of sperm movement toward the egg for fertilization?
Sperm Capacitation
- A 36-year-old male presents with a low sperm count and infertility issues. Lab results show normal testosterone levels but elevated FSH. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?
a) Hyperfunctioning Leydig cells
b) Sertoli cell dysfunction
c) Overproduction of inhibin
d) Excessive testosterone supplementation
b) Sertoli cell dysfunction
- A 25-year-old male has been taking anabolic steroids for muscle gain. He reports testicular shrinkage and low sperm production. What is the MOST likely explanation for these findings?
a) Increased Leydig cell activity
b) Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis
c) Increased secretion of FSH and LH
d) Overproduction of testosterone by the testes
b) Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis
- A man undergoes a vasectomy. Which of the following will remain unchanged after the procedure?
a) Sperm motility
b) Semen volume
c) Sperm count in semen
d) The ability to fertilize an egg
b) Semen volume
- A 40-year-old male is diagnosed with primary hypogonadism. Which of the following lab findings is MOST consistent with this condition?
a) High testosterone, high LH
b) Low testosterone, low LH
c) Low testosterone, high LH
d) High testosterone, low FSH
c) Low testosterone, high LH
- A 50-year-old male is diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Which of the following BEST explains the pathophysiology of his condition?
a) Increased testosterone leading to glandular hypertrophy
b) Excessive androgen receptor activity in Sertoli cells
c) Increased dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causing prostate enlargement
d) Overproduction of FSH leading to prostate inflammation
c) Increased dihydrotestosterone (DHT) causing prostate enlargement
- A 17-year-old male presents with delayed puberty. He has small testes, high-pitched voice, and no facial hair. Lab results show low testosterone and high LH/FSH. What is the MOST likely diagnosis?
a) Klinefelter syndrome
b) Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
c) Cryptorchidism
d) Androgen insensitivity syndrome
a) Klinefelter syndrome
- A patient with erectile dysfunction is prescribed a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor. How does this medication facilitate an erection?
a) Increases sympathetic nervous system activity
b) Stimulates testosterone production
c) Enhances nitric oxide-induced vasodilation
d) Directly activates parasympathetic nerves in the penis
c) Enhances nitric oxide-induced vasodilation
- A newborn male is diagnosed with cryptorchidism. If left untreated, what is the MOST significant long-term complication?
a) Erectile dysfunction
b) Infertility
c) Overproduction of testosterone
d) Decreased prostate function
b) Infertility
- A 45-year-old male presents with fatigue, reduced libido, and weight gain. Blood tests reveal low testosterone and low FSH/LH. Which of the following conditions BEST explains these findings?
a) Primary testicular failure
b) Pituitary dysfunction
c) Overactive Leydig cells
d) Increased inhibin secretion
b) Pituitary dysfunction
- A 60-year-old male with a history of prostate cancer is started on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Which of the following side effects is MOST expected?
a) Increased sperm production
b) Loss of muscle mass
c) Increased libido
d) Increased bone density
b) Loss of muscle mass
- A patient has a disorder that prevents the synthesis of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. What hormonal imbalance is expected?
a) Increased testosterone, decreased dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
b) Decreased testosterone, increased DHT
c) Increased testosterone, increased DHT
d) Decreased testosterone, decreased DHT
a) Increased testosterone, decreased dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
- A 34-year-old male presents with infertility. His semen analysis shows no sperm (azoospermia), but hormone levels are normal. What is the MOST likely cause?
a) Obstruction in the vas deferens
b) Testicular failure
c) Excessive estrogen production
d) Increased inhibin secretion
a) Obstruction in the vas deferens
- A man with high testosterone levels but persistent feminization (gynecomastia) is found to have a genetic mutation affecting androgen receptors. What is the MOST likely condition?
a) Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS)
b) Klinefelter Syndrome
c) Primary hypogonadism
d) Secondary hypogonadism
a) Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS)
- A 70-year-old male presents with urinary retention and difficulty starting urination. Digital rectal exam reveals an enlarged, firm prostate. What is the MOST likely diagnosis?
a) Prostatitis
b) Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
c) Prostate Cancer
d) Epididymitis
b) Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- A 19-year-old male patient presents with delayed puberty, anosmia (lack of smell), and low testosterone. What is the MOST likely diagnosis?
a) Klinefelter syndrome
b) Androgen insensitivity syndrome
c) Kallmann syndrome
d) Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism
c) Kallmann syndrome
- What is libido?
The psychological and physiological drive for sexual activity, influenced by testosterone.
- What is the role of testosterone in puberty?
Stimulates the development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics, including growth of testes, deepening of the voice, and increased muscle mass.
- What are the primary sexual characteristics influenced by testosterone?
Development of testes, penis, and other reproductive organs, enabling sperm production.
- What are the secondary sexual characteristics influenced by testosterone?
Deepening of voice, facial and body hair growth, increased muscle mass, and broadening of shoulders.
- What physiological process allows sperm to become motile and capable of fertilization?
Sperm capacitation.
- What is the function of nitric oxide in the male sexual response?
Relaxes blood vessels in the penis, allowing increased blood flow for an erection.
- What are the structures responsible for erection?
Corpora cavernosa and corpus spongiosum.
- What is the role of the sympathetic nervous system in the male sexual act?
Controls ejaculation by triggering muscle contractions that propel semen out of the urethra.
- What is the primary function of the male reproductive system?
To produce and deliver sperm for reproduction.
- What is andropause?
The gradual decline in testosterone levels occurring in males, typically after age 40.
- What are the effects of andropause?
Reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, fatigue, irritability, and cognitive decline.
- What is the function of Leydig cells?
Produce testosterone in response to luteinizing hormone (LH).
- What is the function of Sertoli cells?
Provide structural and nutritional support for developing sperm, regulated by FSH.
- What hormone stimulates testosterone production?
Luteinizing hormone (LH).
- What hormone stimulates spermatogenesis?
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
- What is the role of inhibin in the male reproductive system?
Inhibits FSH secretion to regulate sperm production.
- What are the three phases of spermatogenesis?
Spermatocytogenesis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis.
- What is the final stage of sperm maturation?
Spermiogenesis, where spermatids transform into fully mature spermatozoa.
- What structure stores sperm and allows them to mature?
Epididymis.
- What is the function of the vas deferens?
Transports sperm from the epididymis to the urethra.
- What gland provides fructose-rich fluid to nourish sperm?
Seminal vesicles.
- What gland secretes an alkaline fluid to neutralize vaginal acidity?
Prostate gland.
- What gland secretes mucus to lubricate the urethra?
Bulbourethral glands (Cowper’s glands).
- What is the role of prostaglandins in semen?
Enhance sperm motility and suppress female immune response to sperm.
- What is the function of the urethra in males?
Serves as a passage for urine and semen.
- A 52-year-old male complains of persistent fatigue, weight gain, and decreased libido. His lab results show low testosterone levels. The nurse explains that this condition, which occurs with aging, is known as:
a) Hypogonadism
b) Andropause
c) Erectile dysfunction
d) Prostatitis
b) Andropause
- A patient undergoing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) asks about possible side effects. The nurse should educate him about the potential risks of:
a) Increased prostate size and cardiovascular issues
b) Increased sperm production and fertility
c) Reduction in muscle mass and bone density
d) Complete loss of libido
a) Increased prostate size and cardiovascular issues
- A 67-year-old male reports difficulty urinating, frequent nighttime urination, and a weak urine stream. The nurse recognizes these as classic symptoms of:
a) Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
b) Prostatitis
c) Hypogonadism
d) Erectile Dysfunction
a) Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- A young male patient is diagnosed with oligospermia (low sperm count). What lifestyle change should the nurse recommend to improve his fertility?
a) Increase intake of processed foods
b) Avoid tight-fitting underwear and excessive heat exposure
c) Reduce fluid intake to thicken sperm
d) Increase stress levels for hormone stimulation
b) Avoid tight-fitting underwear and excessive heat exposure
- A couple visits a fertility clinic after a year of unsuccessful attempts to conceive. Semen analysis reveals reduced sperm motility (asthenospermia). What advice should the nurse give?
a) Sperm motility cannot be improved
b) Avoid alcohol, smoking, and maintain a healthy diet
c) Increase testosterone supplementation without medical guidance
d) Take antibiotics to kill abnormal sperm
b) Avoid alcohol, smoking, and maintain a healthy diet
- A patient with erectile dysfunction (ED) is prescribed a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor (e.g., sildenafil). The nurse explains that this medication works by:
a) Increasing testosterone production
b) Enhancing nitric oxide-induced vasodilation
c) Stimulating Leydig cells to release hormones
d) Blocking sympathetic nerve signals
b) Enhancing nitric oxide-induced vasodilation
- A male patient is diagnosed with testosterone-secreting tumors, leading to an excess of testosterone in his system. The nurse educates him that symptoms of this condition may include:
a) Increased breast tissue growth (gynecomastia)
b) Decreased libido and muscle loss
c) Uncontrolled aggression and excessive body hair growth
d) Reduction in red blood cell count
c) Uncontrolled aggression and excessive body hair growth
- A patient with premature ejaculation seeks medical advice. The nurse explains that one potential cause is:
a) Excessive testosterone levels
b) Serotonin imbalance affecting ejaculation timing
c) Overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system
d) Underdevelopment of the corpus cavernosum
b) Serotonin imbalance affecting ejaculation timing
- A 14-year-old boy presents with concerns about delayed puberty. The nurse explains that one possible cause could be:
a) High levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
b) Low levels of testosterone due to hypogonadism
c) Increased sperm motility
d) Enlarged prostate gland
b) Low levels of testosterone due to hypogonadism
- A fertility nurse explains to a patient that semen analysis evaluates:
a) Only the sperm count
b) Sperm count, motility, and morphology
c) Prostate gland size
d) Levels of nitric oxide in the blood
b) Sperm count, motility, and morphology
- A newborn male is diagnosed with cryptorchidism. The nurse informs the parents that this condition:
a) Is a temporary disorder that resolves in a few days
b) Increases the risk of infertility and testicular cancer
c) Leads to excessive testosterone production
d) Has no long-term health consequences
b) Increases the risk of infertility and testicular cancer
- A patient diagnosed with varicocele asks how this condition affects fertility. The nurse explains that varicocele can:
a) Increase testosterone production
b) Impair sperm production due to increased scrotal temperature
c) Enhance sperm motility
d) Cause excessive ejaculation
b) Impair sperm production due to increased scrotal temperature
- A male patient is concerned about osteoporosis. The nurse explains that in men, testosterone is important for:
a) Increasing fat storage
b) Maintaining bone density and red blood cell production
c) Decreasing prostate size
d) Stimulating excessive estrogen production
b) Maintaining bone density and red blood cell production
