Question

• Explain the role of male accessory glands in producing semen

Answer 1

Accessory glands of the male reproductive system are the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, and the bulbourethral glands. These glands secrete fluids that makes up the major bulk of the semen.

1. Seminal Vesicles

Seminal vesicles are saccular gland lying posterior to the urinary bladder. A short duct from each gland joins with the ductus deferens at the ampulla to form an ejaculatory duct, which then joins into the urethra. Fructose present in its secretion provides an energy source for the sperm; prostaglandins contribute to the mobility and viability of the sperm; the proteins present in its seretion causes slight coagulation reactions in the semen post ejaculation.

Prostate

The prostate gland is a firm, dense gland lying inferior to the urinary bladder.The prostate is present all around the urethra as soon as it leaves the bladder . Multiple short ducts from the prostate gland empty their secretions into the prostatic urethra. The secretions of the prostate are less viscous than that of seminal vesicle, white/milky colored, and are alkaline. Function of the prostatic secretion is to enhance the motility of the sperms.

Bulbourethral Glands

The bulbourethral also known as Cowper's glands are a pair of small, size similar to a pea, and located near the base of the penis. A duct from gland prsent on each side enters the proximal part of the penile urethra. When the person is sexually aroused, the bulbourethral glands secrete an alkaline mucus-like fluid. Its main function is to neutralize the acidity of urine residues in the urethra, it also helps to neutralize the acidity of the vagina, and provides some lubrication for the tip of the peniss during intercourse.