The scrotum and the penis are the male genitalia. The male gonads, called testis, are
tightly coiled tubes surrounded by tissue. It is in these tubes where sperm forms.
The male gonads are located outside of the body since sperm productions can only occur
at about two degrees Celsius lower than normal body temperature. After the sperm are
produced they mature and are stored in the epididymus.
The male reproductive system also contains three sets of glands that add secretions to
the semen. Sixty percent of semen is secreted by these seminal vesicles. They lie
behind and below the bladder and empty directly into the ejaculatory duct. The fluid
secreted is clear yet thick. It contains mucus, amino acids, and fructose. The fructose
provides energy for the sperm.
The prostate gland surrounds the beginning of the urethra. Prostatic fluid is milky,
thin, and alkaline which allows for balance in acidity of any urine remaining in the
urethra, and the acidity of vaginal fluids.
Bulbourethral glands lie along the urethra below the prostate and secrete a viscous
fluid before ejaculation
Three layers of spongy tissue comprise the human penis. When aroused, this tissue fills
with blood from the arteries, while the veins are sealed. This produces an erection.
The shaft of the penis is covered in relatively thick skin. The head, or glans penis,
is covered with thinner skin. This results in extra sensitivity in the glans penis area.
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