Learning Goal: I will know the structure and

function of the male supporting structures

Scrotum, Penis, & Spermatic Cords

MT: Male Reproductive System

Structure of the Scrotum

• Skin-covered pouch where pubic hair grows

• Divided into two sacs by a septum

• Each sac contains a testis, epididymis and a lower part of a spermatic cord

• Has a muscle in it that contracts to contract or relax the testes

Function of the Scrotum

– Ideal temperature for testis to make sperm is 3 degrees below body temperature

– Scrotum must adjust• Cold person – scrotum contracts; testes close

to body • Hot person – scrotum relaxes; testes away

from body

                                

Structure of Penis

• Made of 3 cylindrical masses of erectile tissue, held together by skin

• End of penis is slightly bulging called the glans penis

• Glans penis is covered by a loose skin called prepuce (foreskin)

• Circumcision – surgical removal of prepuce

Function of Penis

• When stimulated, erectile tissues of penis fill with blood, creating an erection.

• Erection permits the penis to serve as a penetrating device to release semen

Structure of Spermatic Cords

• White fibrous tissue that surrounds the vas deferens, blood vessels, and nerves

Function of Spermatic Cords

• Protects vas deferens, blood vessels, and nerves going into testes.