Parts of the reproductive tract also enable urination (the passing of liquid waste from the body).

The organs have different structures that enable functions such as urination andejaculation.

Penis

The penis is the male organ for sexual intercourse and urination.

Urologist points out features of the male reproductive and urinary system

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By contrast, the average flaccid (soft) penis is around 3.6 inches both in length and girth.

The scrotum maintains the ideal temperature forspermto survive.

Other functions include the production and secretion of hormones.

The testes are responsible for producing sperm and the hormonetestosterone.

Within the testes is a internet of coiled tubes calledseminiferous tubules.

These tubules are responsible for producing the sperm through a process calledspermatogenesis.

Together, they are responsible for producing a substance calledseminal fluidthat combines with sperm to form semen.

Sex hormones regulate the male reproductive system.

Both FSH and LH are produced by the pea-sizedpituitary glandlocated at the base of the brain.

FSH and androgens work together to stimulate and maintain spermatogenesis.

LH directly stimulates the testes to make more testosterone.

The inability to climax is known asanorgasmia.

How Common Is Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?

Epididymitis

Epididymitisis the inflammation of the epididymis.

It is most commonly due to bacterial infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) likechlamydiaorgonorrhea.

Epididymitis typically affects one testicle.

The risk of ED increases with age.

The risk of PD increases with age.

How Common Is Peyronie’s Disease?

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is thought to affect 1of every 200 males in the United States.

Paraphimosis is a medical emergency that can lead to tissue death andgangreneif not treated immediately.

Priapism

Priapismis an erection that lasts for four or more hours, usually without sexual arousal.

This can lead to sudden and often severe pain with swelling.

If not treated immediately, testicular torsion can lead to permanent damage and the loss of the testicle.

Varicocele

Varicoceleis the development of enlargedvaricose veinswithin the scrotum.

Varicocele can cause swelling and the formation of a painless lump on a testicle.

How Common Is Prostate Cancer?

The average age of diagnosis is 66, with few cases seen under the age of 40.

This is especially true if you are uncircumcised since bacteria can proliferate under the foreskin.

Be sure to retract the foreskin gently while bathing and clean and dry the penis thoroughly afterward.

Avoid powders, like talcum powder, that can become moisture traps.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Maintaining a healthy male reproductive system involves every aspect of your health.

Many conditions can impair the function of the male reproductive system.

Urologists are specially trained in diseases of the urinary tract and male reproductive organs.

Don’t let embarrassment prevent you from seeking treatment for any condition affecting the male reproductive system.

Certain conditions can also be seen during a telehealth visit with a urologist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sperm is produced in the testes (testicles).

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National Cancer Institute.Accessory glands.

American Urological Association.Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Hypospadias.

Kinsey Institute.Penis size FAQ and bibliography.

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Morris BJ, Matthews JG, Krieger JN.Prevalence of phimosis in males of all ages: systematic review.Urology.

National Institutes of Health.HIV and opportunistic infections, coinfections, and conditions.

2021;48(4):208-214. doi:10.1097/OLQ.0000000000001355

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How to prevent STIs.