The tail is a typical flagellum that propels the sperm along its way.How Sperm Leave The TestesBefore the sperm mature, they move out of the testes through a series of coiled ducts that empty into a single tube called the epididymis. The epididymis is a coiled tube within the scrotum in which the sperm complete their maturation. Mature sperm remain in the epididymis until they are released from the body.When sperm are released from the epididymis, they enter the vas deferens. The vas deferens is a duct that transports sperm from the epididymis toward the ejaculatory ducts and the urethra. Peristaltic contractions of the vas deferens force the sperm along. The urethra is the tube that transports sperm out of the males body. The urethra also transports urine from the urinary bladder. A muscle located at the base of the bladder prevents urine and sperm from mixing.Fluids Transporting SpermAs sperm travel from the testes, they mix with the fluids secreted by several different glands. The seminal vesicles are a pair of glands located at the base of the urinary bladder. They secrete a mucouslike fluid into the vas deferens. The fluid is rich in the sugar fructose, which provides energy for the sperm cells.Another structure, the prostate gland, is a single, doughnut-shaped gland that surrounds the top portion of the urethra. The prostate secretes a thinner, alkaline fluid that helps sperm move and survive. Two tiny bulbourethral glands located beneath the prostate. These glands secrete a clear, sticky, alkaline fluid that protects sperm by neutralizing the acidic environment of the vagina. The combination of sperm and all of these fluids is called semen.Male Sex HormonesHormones also are the control mechanism for the males reproductive system. In early male teen years, changes begin to occur to their bodies. Puberty is the period characterized by development of secondary sex characteristics as a result of production of follicl...
