Testicle
- one of two male reproductive glands that is the site of sperm and
male hormone (testosterone) production. It is also known as the "Testis".
Both testicles (or testes) lie within the scrotum.
Epididymis
- storage unit for sperm. Sperm also mature within this structure. There
is one epididymis attached to the back side of each testicle, from where
the epididymis also transports sperm to the vas deferens.
Vas
Deferens - a muscular tube (14 inch long by 0.1 inch wide) that
propels sperm to the urinary tract. There are two of these. Each is
also referred to as the "Vas" ("Vasa" is plural).
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Semen = a
mixture of less than 1% sperm cells and 99% seminal secretions by volume.
The volume of each ejaculate of semen is approximately 2 to 6 cc. Each
cc of semen normally contains approximately 100 MILLION sperm cells.
Seminal
Vesicle - a gland that produces a component of seminal secretions.
There are two seminal vesicles.
Prostate
- another gland that contributes to seminal secretions.
Bladder
- a muscular, elastic pouch that serves to store and expel urine.
Urethra
- a passageway for semen and urine through the penis to the outside
of the body.
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Other Terms:
Vasectomy
refers to:
"Vas-"
(or vas deferens) = one of the two small tubes for sperm transport.
"-ectomy"
= in this case, cutting and blocking off of the vas. A section of the
vas may or may not be cut out. (Other examples of "-ectomy"
include appendectomy and tonsillectomy).
NSV = No-Scalpel
Vasectomy
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The content of this site is provided for information only and not for
medical advice. This site makes no claims as to the accuracy of its
information and is not a substitute for direct consultation with your
health care professional.
