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Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers

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Family Planning

A GLOBAL HANDBOOK FOR PROVIDERS

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Male Anatomy

and How Contraceptives Work in Men

Male Anatomy and How Contraceptives Work in Men

Penis: Male sex organ made of spongy tissue. When a man becomes sexually excited, it grows larger and stiffens. Semen, containing sperm, is released from the penis (ejaculation) at the height of sexual excitement (orgasm). A male condom covers the erect penis, preventing sperm from entering the woman’s vagina. Withdrawal of the penis from the vagina avoids the release of semen into the vagina. Seminal vesicles: Where sperm is mixed with semen. Prostate: Organ that produces some of the fluid in semen. Vas deferens: Each of the 2 thin tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the seminal vesicles. Vasectomy involves cutting or blocking these tubes so that no sperm enters the semen. Testicles: Organs that produce sperm. Scrotum: Sack of thin loose skin containing the testicles. Foreskin: Hood of skin covering the end of the penis. Circumcision removes the foreskin. Urethra: Tube through which semen is released from the body. Liquid waste (urine) is released through the same tube.

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