Medical Terminology Simplified

MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

The primary sex organs of the male are called gonads, specifically the testes(singular, testis). Gonads produce gametes
(sperm) and secrete sex hormones. The remaining accessory reproductive organs are the structures that are essential
in caring for and transporting sperm. All of these organs and structures are designed to accomplish the male’s repro-
ductive role of producing and delivering sperm to the female reproductive tract, where fertilization can occur.
These structures can be divided into three categories:

• Sperm-transporting ducts, which include the epididymis, vas deferens (or ductus deferens), ejaculatory duct,
  and urethra


• Accessory glands, which include the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands


• Copulatory organ, called the penis, which contains erectile tissue. (See Fig. 8–9.)

354 CHAPTER 8• Reproductive Systems

Symphysis pubis

Vas deferens

Urinary bladder

Penis

Urethra

Glans penis

Prepuce

Urethral orifice

Scrotum

Testis

Epididymis

Sacrum

Opening of ureter

Rectum

Seminal vesicle

Ejaculatory duct

Prostate gland

Bulbourethral gland

Seminiferous tubules Anus

Figure 8-9Lateral view of the male reproductive system.

WORD ELEMENTS

This section introduces combining forms related to the male reproductive system. Included are

key suffixes; prefixes are defined in the right-hand column as needed. Review the following table

and pronounce each word in the word analysis column aloud before you begin to work the

frames.

Word Element Meaning Word Analysis

Combining Forms

andr/o male andr/o/gen (ĂN-drō-jĕn): forming or producing male (hormones)

-gen: forming, producing, origin

Such hormones as testosterone and androsterone produce or stimulate the development

of male characteristics (masculinization).