The male reproductive system - the internal reproductive structures - ch 15 Flashcards
Name 6 INTERNAL reproductive structures?
- Ductus deferens
- Ejaculatory ducts
- Seminal vesicles
- Prostate
- Bulbourethral glands
- Urethra
Describe the Ductus deferens (plural deferentes)?
A long muscular tube (duct)
What is the role of the Ductus deferens?
to transport sperm via peristalsis from each epididymis to the ejaculatory ducts and ultimately to the urethra. Along the way semen is formed from the secxretions from other male sex glands such as the seminal vesicles, prostate and the bulbourethral gland and these mix with the sperm prior to ejaculation
Describe the Ejaculatory duct and what their role is?
two ejaculatory ducts are formed where the ductus deferens connects the seminal vesicles to pass through the prostate and into the urethra. Semen travels along this path before it exits the body through the penis during ejaculation.
Describe the Seminal vesicles and what the role is?
there are two seminal vesicles which are tubular glands located in close proximity to the prostate. The main role of the seminal vesicles is to produce a fluid that makes up most of the semen.
Describe the prostate and where you find it?
the prostate is a small muscular gland surrounding the urethra just below the bladder.
What is the function of the prostate?
to secrete some of the seminal fluid that protects and enriches the sperm as it is transported out of the body. The prostate is enclosed in the muscles of the pelvic floor, which contract during the ejaculatory process and assist with the penile erection.
What is PSA and what is it’s role?
PSA - prostate-specific antigen is an enzyme called a protease that breaks protein secretions into smaller molecules, thus making the semen liquid.
What is another name for Bulbourethral glands and what are their roles?
Another name is Cowper’s glands. During sexual arousal each of the bulbourethral glands produces a clear, sticky fluid known as pre-ejaculate. The pre-ejaculate helps to lubricate the urethra for the sperm to pass through and plays a role in neutralising acids from urine that are in the urethra from earlier urination.
Where do you find the urethra and what is it’s role?
It is a tube that connects the bladder to the penis for the removal of fluids from the body. In males, the urethra carries semen as well as urine and hence has a role in the urinary system as well as the male reproductive system.
