Reproductive+System

=** Male Reproductive System **= = = = = =**interactive diagram of system**= =** [|http://kidshealth.org/misc/movie/bodybasics/male_repro.html] **=

The systems function

 * Its main function is to give men the ability to fertilise a woman's ovum by producing and delivering semen. The testes also make hormones which help men develop the characteristics associated with being male. This includes the distribution of pubic hair, enlargement of the penis and deepening of the voice. **

==**Hydrocele - a fluid filled sac partially surrounding the testis. Manifests itself as a swelling on the side of the scrotum. May cause discomfort. Can be surgically corrected. Usually the only indication of a hydrocele is a painless swelling of one or both testicles.**==

==**Varicocele - dilated and twisted veins of the testis, sort of "hemorrhoids" of the scrotum! Manifests itself as a swelling on the side of the scrotum which may look and feel like a "bag of worms." May be surgically corrected if causing discomfort. This condition may also cause reduced sperm count and male sterility due to sluggish blood flow elevating testicular temperature. Some symptoms are Pain, Fertility Problems, and Testicular Atrophy .**==

==**Cryptorchidism - literally "hidden testicle." A condition of lack of descent of one or both testes into the scrotum. If not corrected, usually by surgery, before puberty, can lead to sterility and increased risk of testicular cancer. The only symptom is absence of one or both testes from the scrotum.**==

=** Three fun/educational website links **=