Male reproductive anatomy and function

The male reproductive and sexual anatomy includes the penis and scrotum (the external parts), and internal reproductive organs. Read more about the names and function of these organs here – https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/sexual-and-reproductive-anatomy/what-are-parts-male-sexual-anatomy

Image showing the organs of the male sexual and reproductive system.
From Bioscope, HUG (Hôpitaux universitaires de Genève), DIP (Département de l’Instruction Publique), Odile Fillod

Some penises are circumcised and some are not. If parents choose to do this for their infants, they will usually do it very close to birth. There are cultural and religious reasons for circumcision, and there may be health benefits, but routine circumcision is no longer recommended in the United States.

People with testes should do a testicular self-exam monthly. Other care for reproductive health includes HPV vaccination, regular STI exams if they are sexually active with another person, and contraception if they engage in sexual activity with people who may get pregnant.

The main hormone produced by testes is testosterone (though all people produce both estrogen and testosterone). This hormone is responsible for many things like sex drive, sexual development and maturity, and so on.

While people with typical male anatomy do not have an equivalent to menopause and thus may remain fertile until the end of life, some may experience a drop in their testosterone levels as they get older. Read more here – https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/male-menopause/art-20048056?p=1.

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