Question

What is the function of the scrotum?

Answer 1

Hint: Scrotum is a sac-like structure having folds of skin that hangs just in front of the lower pelvic region in males. The scrotum holds testicles. Sperms that are male gametes are produced and stored in testicles. Scrotum plays a crucial role in testicles functioning.

Complete answer: In the male reproductive system, the scrotum are sac-like structures characterized by wrinkled or folded skin that hangs below the penis in front of the lower pelvic region. The scrotum acts as a holding structure for testicles. The testicles or testes are oval-shaped glands that are responsible for the production of various male hormones, especially testosterone. Also, the sperms that are the male gametes are formed and stored by testes. The scrotum seems to be divided into two by a line in the middle called perineal raphae. Internally a septum is present in the middle of the scrotum that divides it into two. The raphae attach the scrotum to this septum. Each side of the scrotum is composed of a testicle, epididymis, spermatic cord, and cremaster muscle. The scrotal wall that is lined by smooth muscle surrounds these components. As the scrotum contains testicles that produce sperms and male sex hormones, it directly controls the functioning of testicles. It acts as a closed climate control system for sperm production. The epididymis inside the scrotum helps in the transfer of sperms from the testicles. Also, it is responsible for the storage of sperms until maturation. The scrotum contains various blood vessels. These blood vessels maintain the blood supply for testicles and other components of the scrotum. The cremaster muscle in the scrotum helps in the movement of testicles away or toward the body. The scrotum hangs freely in warm conditions. But in colder conditions, the scrotum tightens and moves testicles toward the body so that temperature remains safe for sperm production. Also, the scrotum provides protection to all the components it encloses. Therefore, the scrotum plays a major role in the male reproductive system functioning and maintenance.

Note: Sperms are stored inside the epididymis for at least 60 to 80 days. During this period the sperms get mature and are mixed with other essential fluids. The scrotum is affected by many conditions that can affect these stored sperms and their efficiency of fertilization.