The testes — also called testicles — are two oval-shaped organs in the male reproductive system. They’re contained in a sac of skin called the scrotum. The scrotum hangs outside the body in the front of the pelvic region near the upper thighs. Show
Structures within the testes are important for the production and storage of sperm until they’re mature enough for ejaculation. The testes also produce a hormone called testosterone. This hormone is responsible for sex drive, fertility, and the development of muscle and bone mass. Anatomy and function of testesThe main function of the testes is producing and storing sperm. They’re also crucial for creating testosterone and other male hormones called androgens. Testes get their ovular shape from tissues known as lobules. Lobules are made up of coiled tubes surrounded by dense connective tissues. Seminiferous tubulesSeminiferous tubules are coiled tubes that make up most of each testis. The cells and tissues in the tubules are responsible for spermatogenesis, which is the process of creating sperm. These tubules are lined with a layer of tissue called the epithelium. This layer is made up of Sertoli cells that aid in the production of hormones that generate sperm. Among the Sertoli cells are spermatogenic cells that divide and become spermatozoa, or sperm cells. The tissues next to the tubules are called Leydig cells. These cells produce male hormones, such as testosterone and other androgens. Rete testisAfter sperm is created in the seminiferous tubules, sperm cells travel toward the epididymis through the rete testis. The rete testis helps to mix sperm cells around in the fluid secreted by Sertoli cells. The body reabsorbs this fluid as sperm cells travel from the seminiferous tubules to the epididymis. Before sperm can get to the epididymis, they can’t move. Millions of tiny projections in the rete testis, known as microvilli, help move sperm along to the efferent tubules. Efferent ductsThe efferent ducts are a series of tubes that join the rete testis to the epididymis. The epididymis stores sperm cells until they’re mature and ready for ejaculation. These ducts are lined with hair-like projections called cilia. Along with a layer of smooth muscle, cilia help move the sperm into the epididymis. The efferent ducts also absorb most of the fluid that helps to move sperm cells. This results in a higher concentration of sperm in ejaculate fluid. Tunica: Vasculosa, albuginea, and vaginalisThe testes are surrounded by several layers of tissue. They are the:
Tunica vasculosa is the first thin layer of blood vessels. This layer shields the tubular interior of each testicle from further layers of tissue around the outer testicle. The next layer is called the tunica albuginea. It’s a thick, protective layer made of densely packed fibers that further protect the testes. The outermost layers of tissue are called the tunica vaginalis. The tunica vaginalis consists of three layers:
Testes diagramExplore the interactive 3-D diagram below to learn more about the testes. What conditions affect the testes?Many conditions can affect the testes. Here’s a list of some of the most common ones. HydroceleA hydrocele happens when excess fluid builds up in the cavities around one of your testicles. This is sometimes present at birth, but it can also result from an injury or inflammation. Hydrocele symptoms include:
Hydroceles usually don’t require treatment unless they’re very large or painful. Most go away on their own, but more severe cases might require surgical removal. Testicular torsionTesticular torsion means that your testicle has rotated in the scrotum. This can wind up the spermatic cord, cutting off blood supply, nerve function, and sperm transport to your scrotum. Symptoms of testicular torsion include:
Several things can cause testicular torsion, including:
Your doctor can treat testicular torsion by moving the testicle by hand. Some cases might require surgery to untwist the spermatic cord. OrchitisOrchitis refers to a swollen or inflamed testicle. Like epididymitis, orchitis often results from an infection caused by an STI. Orchitis symptoms include:
Both bacterial and viral infections can cause orchitis. A combination of antibiotics or antiviral medication, along with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or cold packs can help reduce discomfort and pain. Orchitis usually disappears in 7-10 days. HypogonadismHypogonadism happens when your body doesn’t make enough testosterone. It can result from a testicular issue or because your brain doesn’t properly stimulate hormone production. You can be born with this condition. It can also happen due to an injury, infection, or other condition that affects testosterone production. Symptoms of hypogonadism vary depending on age:
Hypogonadism is usually treated with hormone replacement therapy. It’s aimed at either the brain or testes, depending on the source of low testosterone production. Testicular cancerTesticular cancer happens when cancerous cells multiply within the tissue of your testicles. It commonly starts in the tubular testicle structures that help produce sperm. The cause of testicular cancer isn’t always clear. Symptoms of testicular cancer can include:
Sometimes, your doctor can surgically remove the affected tissue. In other cases, you may need to have an entire testicle removed. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy can also help destroy cancer cells. What are common symptoms of a testicular condition?See your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms in one or both of your testes:
Other symptoms of a problem with the testes include:
Tips for healthy testesTry the following to keep your scrotum in good health: Do a monthly testicular self-examRoll each testicle around in your scrotum using your fingers. Check for lumps and swollen or tender areas. Bathe regularlyTake a shower or bath every day to keep your entire genital area clean. This reduces your risk of infections that can cause other complications. Keep your penis and scrotal area dry after bathing. Moisture trapped in the area can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria. Wear loose, comfortable clothingTry to avoid wearing tight underwear and pants. Allow your scrotum to hang naturally from your body to help keep the scrotal temperature low and prevent injury. Wear protection when you have sexWear a condom when doing any kind of sexual activity involving your penis. This helps to prevent sexually transmitted diseases that affect your scrotum and testicles. What hormones are produced by testes?The testes are two oval-shaped male reproductive glands that produce sperm and the hormone testosterone.
What is the male hormone produced by?Testosterone is produced by the gonads (by the Leydig cells in testes in men and by the ovaries in women), although small quantities are also produced by the adrenal glands in both sexes. It is an androgen, meaning that it stimulates the development of male characteristics.
What do the testes produce?The testes are responsible for making sperm and are also involved in producing a hormone called testosterone. Testosterone is an important hormone during male development and maturation for developing muscles, deepening the voice, and growing body hair. Epididymis. A long tube that is located near each testicle.
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