What Is the Seminal Vesicle? Anatomy, Functions & Exam Tips
The seminal vesicle is also known as the seminal or the vesicular gland that is situated in the male pelvis. There are two different glands that are located on either side of the male pelvis. The main function of the seminal vesicle is to produce most of the important ingredients used in the creation of semen in the male reproductive system. About 70% of the total semen volume is provided by the seminal vesicle.
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Hence, it can be said without a single speck of doubt that the seminal vesicle is an essential part of the entire male reproductive system. In this article, students will consider the anatomy of seminal vesicles, their functions, and what are enlarged seminal vesicles.
Anatomy and Location of Seminal Vesicle
The seminal vesicle or the seminal glands are a pair of tubular glands that are five cm long each. The location of the bilateral seminal vesicles is between the rectum and the bladder fundus. The rectum and the bladder fundus are separated from each other due to the presence of rectoprostatic fascia and the rectovesical pouch.
One of the important anatomical relations that the seminal vesicle has is with the ductus deferens. The duct situated in the seminal vesicle is combined with the vas deferens in order to create the ejaculatory duct. This duct drains to the entire prostatic urethra. The basic structure of the seminal vesicle resembles that of a honeycomb. It has a lobulated structure and has a mucosa that is lined with pseudostratified columnar epithelium. The pseudostratified columnar epithelium can be defined as columnar cells which are under the influence of testosterone and hence grow taller with the higher levels. These structures are responsible for the formation of the seminal vesicle fluid.
The Function of Seminal Vesicles
The secretions that are formed in the seminal gland tend to have a very important role to play in the proper functioning of the semen that is produced in the male reproductive system. It makes up about 70% of the entire volume of the semen produced. It is an extremely important thing to note that the first few fractions of the semen that is expelled will contain spermatozoa and other prostatic secretions. In the later fractions of the semen, the seminal vesicle fluids are present. Hence, it can be said without a single speck of doubt that seminal vesicles and prostate gland make up all the semen that is produced. The main function of seminal vesicles is to secrete the fluids that make up the semen.
The alkaline fluid, for example, helps in neutralizing the acidic environment of both the vagina and the male urethra in order to make sure that the spermatozoa are able to survive there. Another fluid known as Prostaglandins helps in surpassing the immune response of the female system to foreign semen. Fructose plays an important role in providing a proper energy source for spermatozoa. There are certain clotting factors present in the fluid in order to ascertain the trajectory of the semen in the female reproductive system after ejaculation.
Different Seminal Vesicles Problems
There could be so many different medical conditions that tend to affect the seminal vesicles. However, these cases are very rare. Here are some medical conditions that tend to have an effect on the seminal vesicle.
Infection in Seminal Vesicle
There might be some abscess forming in the seminal vesicle in case there is a bacterial infestation in the area. This can occur from the infections that happen in the prostate gland as well as the urethra of the male. In this situation, the enlarged seminal vesicles causes the gland to swell and have some pain. There might also be some pus as a result of the infection. It is important to drain the abscess in order to overcome the problem.
Seminal Vesicle Cysts
There might be some cysts that are formed in the seminal vesicle. Although they are asymptomatic, they can cause some problems in the future for sure. Some prior infections and surgery could be the reason for the formation of the cyst in the seminal vesicle. Some of the major symptoms of such medical conditions include penile pain, enlarged seminal vesicles, blood in the urine, and much more.
Apart from that, stones and cancer in the seminal vesicles are also considered to be effective medical conditions that take place in the seminal vesicle. It is important for the person to go see the doctor and get a seminal vesicle ultrasound to get more details on their medical condition.
Conclusion
The above-mentioned article provides some important information about the seminal vesicles and the diseases that these have. For proper enlarged seminal vesicles treatment, one needs to consult a doctor immediately.
FAQs on Seminal Vesicle: Structure, Functions, and Key Health Insights
1. What are the seminal vesicles?
The seminal vesicles are a pair of small, tube-like glands found in the male pelvis. They are a crucial part of the male reproductive system and are located just behind the bladder, above the prostate gland. Their primary role is to produce and secrete a significant portion of the fluid that makes up semen.
2. Where are the seminal vesicles located in the male reproductive system?
The seminal vesicles are situated in the pelvis, between the urinary bladder and the rectum. Each vesicle lies just above the prostate gland and joins with the corresponding vas deferens (the tube that carries sperm) to form the ejaculatory duct. This location allows them to easily add their fluid to the sperm.
3. What is the main function of the seminal vesicles?
The main function of the seminal vesicles is to produce a thick, yellowish fluid known as seminal fluid. This fluid mixes with sperm to form semen. It serves several vital purposes:
- It provides energy-rich nutrients, like fructose, to keep the sperm cells alive and active.
- It contains substances that help the semen to clot after ejaculation, protecting the sperm.
- It contributes to the overall volume of the ejaculate, helping to transport the sperm.
4. What important substances do the seminal vesicles secrete into their fluid?
The fluid secreted by the seminal vesicles is rich in several key substances, each with a specific role:
- Fructose: A type of sugar that provides the main source of energy for sperm cells to swim.
- Prostaglandins: These hormones are thought to cause contractions in the female reproductive tract, helping to move sperm towards the egg.
- Fibrinogen: A protein that helps the semen to form a temporary clot after ejaculation, which keeps the sperm concentrated in the female reproductive tract.
5. How does the fluid from seminal vesicles help sperm survive?
The fluid from the seminal vesicles is crucial for sperm survival. Firstly, it provides fructose, which is like a high-energy snack for sperm, fuelling their long journey. Secondly, the fluid is slightly alkaline (basic). This is important because it helps to neutralise the acidic environment of both the male urethra and the female vagina, protecting the sperm from damage and increasing their chances of reaching the egg.
6. Why is the fructose in seminal fluid so important for reproduction?
Fructose is critically important because sperm cells have very little cytoplasm and no stored energy reserves. They need an external source of fuel to power their flagellum (tail) for swimming. The fructose secreted by the seminal vesicles provides this essential, easily metabolised energy. Without this fuel, sperm would not have the energy to travel through the female reproductive tract to fertilize the egg.
7. What is the difference between the fluids from the prostate gland and the seminal vesicles?
While both glands contribute to semen, their fluids are different. The fluid from the seminal vesicles is thick, yellowish, and alkaline, making up about 60-70% of semen. Its main job is providing fructose for energy. In contrast, the fluid from the prostate gland is thin, milky, and slightly acidic. It contains citrate as a nutrient and enzymes that help to liquefy the clotted semen after some time, allowing sperm to swim freely.
8. What problems can occur with the seminal vesicles?
Like any organ, the seminal vesicles can have problems. The most common issue is inflammation, a condition called seminal vesiculitis, which can be caused by an infection. This can lead to pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. In rare cases, blockages or cysts can form. Since the seminal vesicles play a vital role in producing semen, any problem with them can potentially affect male fertility.
