MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM GLOSSARY

Anatomical parts
Term Definition Equivalent Term
Penis The male genital organ that
transfers of sperm during
copulation, largely of erectile
tissue. Also used for urination.
Foreskin Retractable roll of skin covering
the end of the penis.
Scrotum External sac in males' genital
area that contains the testicles.
Testicles or Testis male gonads.
Seminiferous tubes Coiled-threadlike tubules that
make up the bulk of the testis.
Epididymis Highly convoluted duct behind
the testis, along which sperm
passes to the vas deferens.
Vas deferens Conducts the sperm cells from
the epididymis to the urethra.

Prostate Walnut-sized gland, in front of

the rectum, that produces a
fluid to nourish sperm cells.
Seminal vesicles 5cm long and are located
behind the bladder and above
the prostate gland. Secrete
components of semen.
Sperm Male reproductive cells.
Semen Fluid and sperms released
through the penis during
orgasm.
Diseases and Conditions
Term Definition Equivalent Term
Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy Enlargement of the prostate.
(BPH)
Hydrocele Testicle swelling because of
fluid building up in the testicle.
Erectile Dysfunction Inability to get and keep an
erection firm enough for sex.
Testicular torsion Occurs when a testicle rotates,
twisting the spermatic cord that
brings blood to the scrotum.
Priapism Persistent and painful erection
of the penis.
Varicocele When veins become enlarged
inside your scrotum.
Testicular cancer Any cancer that develops
(starts) in the testicles
Cryptorchidism (Undescended Condition in which either one or
Testicle) both testicles fail to descend
into the scrotum

Procedures and Tests

Term Definition Equivalent Term
Vasectomy Surgical cutting and sealing of
part of each vas deferens.
Prostatectomy Surgical procedure for the
partial or complete removal of
the prostate.
Testosterone levels Steroid hormone that
stimulates development of male
secondary sexual
characteristics.
Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Blood test done to check for
Prostate cancer.
Semen Analysis Test to assess the volume and
quality of a man’s sperm.