22 Male Pelvic Viscera
Male Pelvic Viscera:
The male pelvic viscera consist of important organs and structures within the pelvic cavity, including the bladder, prostate gland, seminal vesicles, and parts of the reproductive and urinary tracts.
These organs work together to manage the storage and elimination of urine, as well as the production, storage, and transport of sperm and seminal fluid.
In ejaculation, several organs work together:
| Organ | Function |
| Prostate | Produces fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. |
| Seminal Vesicles | Add a sugary fluid that provides energy for sperm. |
| Testes | Produce sperm and testosterone. |
| Vas Deferens | Transports sperm from the testes to the urethra. |
| Bulbourethral Glands | Release a lubricating fluid to aid sperm movement. |
Prostate:
The prostate produces seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. It also helps with ejaculation and supports urinary control.
- The prostate is a small gland located just below the bladder.
- It produces seminal fluid, which helps nourish and transport sperm.
- The prostate helps with the release of semen during ejaculation.
- The prostate can grow larger with age, which can sometimes cause urinary problems.
- Regular prostate check-ups are important as issues can range from inflammation to cancer.
Epididymis:
The epididymis, a long and coiled tube located on the back of the testes stores and matures sperm cells produced in the testes. It also helps transport sperm during ejaculation.
Urethra:
The urethra in the male anatomy serves a dual purpose of carrying urine from the bladder, and for transporting semen during ejaculation. It can be divided into separate segments as depicted below:
| Organ | Function |
| Prostatic Urethra | Passes through the prostate gland. Fluids from the prostate mix with sperm. |
| Membranous Urethra | A short, narrow part that passes through the pelvic floor muscles; it helps control urine flow. |
| Spongy (Penile) Urethra | Runs through the penis and carries both urine and semen out of the body. |
Seminal vesicles:
The seminal vesicles located posterior to the bladder and superior to the prostate, produce a fluid rich in fructose that provides energy for sperm. This fluid also helps form semen, which is crucial for sperm’s journey during ejaculation. The seminal vesicles also connect to the vas deferens which enter the prostatic urethra.
For a full view of the male pelvic viscera view the image below:
Blood supply and innervation of the male pelvic organs:
The male pelvic blood supply is described below:
| Arterial | Venous |
| Visceral branches of the internal iliac artery | Visceral branches of the internal iliac vein
These branches derive from larger venous plexuses |
Innervation:
When the parasympathetic nerves are stimulated, they help with digestion and make the bladder and rectum contract, leading to urination and defecation. They also aid in arousal leading to erections.
On the other hand, when the sympathetic nerves are stimulated, they slow down digestion and cause the muscles in the genital organs to contract during orgasm.