Male Accessory Gland: Overview, Structure, Function

Edited By Irshad Anwar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 07:14 PM IST

In the Male Reproductive system, accessory glands are important organs. Male Accessory Glands include the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands. These accessory glands release fluids that help sperm move, survive, and fertilise the egg. This fluid mixes with sperm and forms semen. The fluid released by Accessory glands is essential in Human Reproduction.

This Story also Contains

What Are The Male Accessory Glands?
Overview Of The Male Reproductive System
Study Of Male Accessory Glands In Detail
Chemical Composition Of Seminal Fluid
Male Accessory Glands Hormonal Control
Disorders And Diseases Of Accessory Gland
MCQs on Male Accessory Glands
'Recommended Video On Male Accessory Gland'

Male Accessory Gland: Overview, Structure, Function

The Male Reproductive System includes primary and secondary sex organs, accessory ducts, and glands that help in sperm production and transport. The Male Accessory Glands produce fluids that support and protect the structure of sperm. This article includes a study of Male Accessory Glands in detail, Disorders and Diseases of Accessory Gland.

What Are The Male Accessory Glands?

The male accessory glands form a special type of gland within the male reproductive system and are responsible for the production of seminal fluid components to support and enhance the viability and mobility of sperm. These include seminal vesicles, the prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands, each contributing different substances to semen.

The primary role of the male accessory glands is to feed the sperm for motility and survival from acid death in the female reproductive system, thus enhancing their possibility of successful fertilisation.

Overview Of The Male Reproductive System

The male reproductive system makes and delivers sperm. It includes testes, ducts, and glands that help in this process. The main parts of the male sex accessory ducts are:

Testes: These produce Sperm and Testosterone.
Epididymis: It stores and matures the sperm.
Vas Deferens: It transports sperm from the epididymis.
Urethra: Sperm leaves the body at semen discharge.

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Role of Accessory Glands

Contribution to seminal fluid.
Increasing sperm viability and mobility.

Study Of Male Accessory Glands In Detail

Male accessory glands support spermatogenesis by adding fluids that protect and nourish the sperm. The detailed structure is explained below:

Seminal Vesicles

Position and anatomy: It is a paired gland located behind the bladder and above the prostate.
Function: Secretes fructose to be used by the sperm for energy and prostaglandins to help the motility of the sperm and dilatation of the cervix.

Prostate Gland

Position and anatomy: It is a walnut-sized gland present beneath the bladder.
Function: Produces alkaline fluid that acts to neutralize vaginal acidity and enzymes that enhance sperm motility.
Role in semen discharge: Contracts to expel semen during semen discharge.

Bulbourethral Glands (Cowper's Glands)

Location and structure: Pea-sized glands located below the prostate, near the urethra
Function: Produces lubricating mucus that serves to lubricate during semen discharge and neutralise acidic residues from the urethra.

Chemical Composition Of Seminal Fluid

Seminal fluid is made by the male accessory glands. It contains important chemicals like fructose, enzymes, and mucous. These help sperm survive, move, and reach the egg. The chemical composition of the gland is described below:

Constituents of Each Gland

Seminal vesicles: Fructose, prostaglandins.
Prostate gland: Citric acid, proteolytic enzymes.
Bulbourethral glands: Mucous

Function of Each Component

Fructose: Sperm energy source.
Prostaglandins: Sperm motility enhancers.
Citric acid and enzymes: Sperm protector and mobilizers.
Mucous: Sperm lubricant and protector.

Male Accessory Glands Hormonal Control

Male accessory glands hormonal control of the male reproductive system help in the production of semen and support sperm function. Hormonal control plays an important role in the activity of male accessory glands as given below:

Role of Hormones

Testosterone: Development and maintenance of male reproduction tissues.
Other androgens: Accessory glands and sperm production.

Feedback Mechanisms

Hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis: Regulation in the amount of hormone secretion to keep the reproductive system in perfect balance.

Disorders And Diseases Of Accessory Gland

Disorders of the human reproductive system connected with the accessory glands of the male reproductive system greatly affect fertility.

Common Disorders

Prostatitis: It is a condition where the prostate gland gets inflamed.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia: It is a non-cancerous growth of the prostate gland.
Prostate cancer: Abnormal malignant growth in the prostate gland.

MCQs on Male Accessory Glands

Question 1: Choose incorrect Statement about accessory sex glands in males?

Accessory sex glands consists of a pair of seminal vesicles.
Accessory sex glands consists of a pair of prostate glands.
Accessory sex glands consists of a pair of bulbourethral glands.
Accessory sex glands consists of a pair of cowper's glands.

Answer: Accessory sex glands in males consist of a pair of seminal vesicles, a prostate, and a pair of bulbourethral glands.

These glands release their secretions to form a seminal plasma that is rich in fructose, calcium, and a few enzymes.

The bulbourethral gland releases its secretions that help the frictionless movement of the penis during sexual intercourse.

The prostate is only one and not paired.

Hence, the correct answer is option 2) Accessory sex glands consists of a pair of prostate glands.

Question 2: Which gland helps in the lubrication of the vagina for smooth movement of the penis during copulation?

Seminal Vesicle
Prostate Gland
Rete testis
Cowper’s Gland

Answer: Cowper’s Gland secretes lubricating fluid that helps in lubrication of the vagina for smooth movement of the penis during copulation.

A clear substance produced by the Cowper's glands helps lubricate the urethra and counteract any remaining acidic urine. In addition to lubricating the vaginal opening to facilitate smoother sexual contact, this fluid is secreted during arousal. It facilitates simpler movement during copulation by lowering friction and improving comfort.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4) Cowper’s Gland.

Question 3: Considering the statements

1. It is a paired structure

2. It is located on the lateral side of the male urethra

3. It contributes to the lubrication of the penis

To which of the following does 'It' specifically refer

Seminal vesicle
Bartholin gland
Bulbourethral gland
Prostate gland

Answer: The Bulbourethral gland, also known as the Cowper's gland, is a paired structure located on the lateral side of the male urethra. Its primary function is to secrete a clear, viscous fluid that contributes to the lubrication of the penis during sexual arousal. This fluid helps to neutralize any residual acidity in the urethra, providing a more favorable environment for sperm survival and transport.

Hence, the correct answer is option 3) Bulbourethral gland.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the main role of seminal fluid and the male accessory glands responsible for this fluid?

Seminal fluid is produced by male accessory glands and supports, protects, and provides mobility to sperm.

2. Where are the seminal vesicles located?

Seminal vesicles are located behind the bladder and above the prostate gland.

3. What does the prostate gland do?

The prostate gland secretes an alkaline fluid that is part of the seminal fluid, helps in neutralising vaginal acidity, and enhances sperm mobility.

4. What are the three male glands and their functions?

The three male accessory glands are:

Seminal Vesicles: Secrete fructose-rich fluid to feed the sperm and prostaglandins for the movement of the sperm and cervical dilatation.
Prostate Gland: The prostate gland secrets an alkaline fluid that would neutralise the acidity in the vagina and contains some enzymes to enhance the motility of sperm.
Bulbourethral Glands: They secrete lubricating mucus that helps to lubricate the acidic residues in the urethra and provide lubrication during sperm discharge.

5. What are common diseases affecting the prostate gland?

The common diseases are prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and prostate cancer.

6. What is the composition of seminal fluid?

Seminal fluid is a complex mixture containing sperm (5-10%) and secretions from the accessory glands (90-95%). It includes nutrients, enzymes, buffers, and other compounds that support sperm function and survival.

7. How do seminal vesicles contribute to semen production?

Seminal vesicles produce a thick, alkaline fluid rich in fructose, which provides energy for sperm. This fluid makes up about 60-70% of semen volume and helps neutralize the acidic environment of the female reproductive tract.

8. What is the role of the prostate gland in male reproduction?

The prostate gland produces a thin, milky fluid that contains enzymes, zinc, and other compounds. This fluid helps to liquefy semen after ejaculation and provides an alkaline environment to protect sperm from the acidic vaginal tract.

9. How does the alkaline nature of accessory gland secretions benefit sperm?

The alkaline secretions from male accessory glands help neutralize the acidic environment of the vagina, which would otherwise be harmful to sperm. This pH buffering increases sperm survival and motility, enhancing the chances of successful fertilization.

10. What is the significance of fructose in seminal fluid?

Fructose, primarily secreted by the seminal vesicles, serves as an energy source for sperm. This sugar provides the fuel necessary for sperm to swim through the female reproductive tract and reach the egg for fertilization.

11. How does age affect the function of male accessory glands?

As men age, the function of accessory glands may decline. The prostate gland often enlarges, which can lead to urinary issues. The volume and quality of seminal fluid may also decrease, potentially affecting fertility.

12. How do accessory gland secretions protect sperm from the immune system?

Accessory gland secretions contain immunosuppressive factors that help protect sperm from the male and female immune systems. This is crucial because sperm cells can be recognized as foreign by the immune system due to their unique antigens.

13. What is the role of zinc in prostatic fluid?

Zinc, found in high concentrations in prostatic fluid, plays several important roles. It acts as an antibacterial agent, helps stabilize sperm chromatin (DNA packaging), and may influence sperm motility and fertilization capacity.

14. What is the significance of citric acid in prostatic fluid?

Citric acid in prostatic fluid serves as a buffer to help maintain optimal pH for sperm survival. It also acts as a nutrient source and may play a role in sperm capacitation, the process that allows sperm to fertilize an egg.

15. What is the significance of proteolytic enzymes in seminal fluid?

Proteolytic enzymes in seminal fluid, primarily from the prostate, help liquefy the initially gel-like semen after ejaculation. This liquefaction is crucial for releasing individual sperm cells and allowing them to swim freely.

16. How do male accessory glands respond to sexual arousal?

During sexual arousal, male accessory glands increase their secretory activity in preparation for ejaculation. This ensures that an adequate volume of seminal fluid is available to mix with sperm and form semen when ejaculation occurs.

17. How do male accessory gland secretions influence the female reproductive tract?

Accessory gland secretions contain factors that can influence the female reproductive tract, including immunomodulatory compounds, signaling molecules, and hormones. These may affect implantation, embryo development, and even female behavior.

18. How do accessory gland secretions influence sperm capacitation?

Accessory gland secretions contain factors that initiate the process of sperm capacitation. This includes removing inhibitory factors from the sperm surface and promoting changes in sperm membrane composition, preparing sperm for fertilization.

19. How do male accessory gland secretions influence sperm metabolism?

Accessory gland secretions provide nutrients like fructose and citric acid that fuel sperm metabolism. They also contain factors that regulate sperm metabolic pathways, influencing energy production and utilization.

20. What is the role of prostaglandins in seminal fluid?

Prostaglandins, primarily produced by the seminal vesicles, stimulate contractions in the female reproductive tract. These contractions help transport sperm towards the egg and may also suppress the female immune response to sperm.

21. How do male accessory glands contribute to the coagulation and liquefaction of semen?

Seminal vesicles secrete proteins that cause semen to coagulate after ejaculation, forming a temporary gel. The prostate then releases enzymes that break down this gel, liquefying the semen to allow sperm to swim freely.

22. How does the volume of accessory gland secretions compare to the volume of sperm in semen?

Accessory gland secretions make up the vast majority (90-95%) of semen volume, while sperm only account for about 5-10%. This large volume of supportive fluid is crucial for sperm transport and survival.

23. How do male accessory glands contribute to the viscosity of semen?

The viscosity of semen is primarily determined by secretions from the seminal vesicles and prostate. Initially high viscosity helps retain semen in the female reproductive tract, while subsequent liquefaction allows sperm to swim freely.

24. How do male accessory glands contribute to sperm transport in the female reproductive tract?

Accessory gland secretions create a fluid medium that facilitates sperm movement. Additionally, components like prostaglandins stimulate contractions in the female reproductive tract, aiding in sperm transport towards the egg.

25. How do male accessory gland secretions influence sperm-egg interaction?

Accessory gland secretions contain factors that modify the sperm surface, preparing sperm for interaction with the egg. This includes changes that enable sperm to bind to and penetrate the egg's outer layers during fertilization.

26. What are male accessory glands and why are they important?

Male accessory glands are specialized structures in the male reproductive system that produce and secrete fluids that contribute to semen. They are important because these fluids nourish and protect sperm, enhance sperm motility, and help create an optimal environment for fertilization.

27. How do male accessory glands differ from testes in function?

While testes produce sperm and testosterone, male accessory glands do not produce gametes or hormones. Instead, they secrete fluids that mix with sperm to form semen, supporting sperm survival and function outside the male body.

28. Why are bulbourethral glands also called Cowper's glands?

Bulbourethral glands are also known as Cowper's glands after the anatomist William Cowper, who first described them in detail. These pea-sized glands secrete a clear, mucus-like fluid that lubricates the urethra and neutralizes any residual urine acidity.

29. What is the anatomical relationship between the prostate gland and the urethra?

The prostate gland surrounds the urethra just below the bladder. This positioning allows prostatic fluid to be easily added to the semen as it passes through the urethra during ejaculation.

30. How do bulbourethral gland secretions differ from other accessory gland fluids?

Bulbourethral gland secretions are clear and mucus-like, unlike the more opaque fluids from the prostate and seminal vesicles. Their primary functions are lubrication and pH neutralization rather than providing nutrients or enzymes.

31. Which are the main male accessory glands?

The main male accessory glands are the seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbourethral glands (also known as Cowper's glands). Each of these glands contributes unique components to the seminal fluid.

32. How do accessory gland secretions affect sperm chromatin stability?

Accessory gland secretions, particularly from the prostate, contain zinc and other factors that help stabilize sperm chromatin (DNA packaging). This protects the genetic material from damage and ensures proper delivery to the egg.

33. How do accessory gland secretions protect sperm from oxidative stress?

Accessory gland secretions contain various antioxidants, including vitamin C, uric acid, and enzymes like superoxide dismutase. These compounds neutralize reactive oxygen species that could otherwise damage sperm DNA or membranes.

34. How do male accessory gland secretions influence sperm hyperactivation?

Accessory gland secretions contain factors that trigger or modulate sperm hyperactivation, a change in sperm motility pattern crucial for penetrating the egg's outer layers. This includes compounds that affect calcium signaling in sperm.

35. How do accessory gland secretions affect sperm energy metabolism?

Accessory gland secretions provide substrates for sperm energy metabolism, primarily fructose from seminal vesicles. They also contain factors that regulate metabolic pathways, influencing how sperm produce and use energy.

36. What is the function of semenogelin in seminal fluid?

Semenogelin, produced by the seminal vesicles, is a protein that forms a gel-like structure in freshly ejaculated semen. This gel temporarily immobilizes sperm and is later broken down by prostatic enzymes to release the sperm.

37. What is the role of albumin in seminal plasma?

Albumin, found in seminal plasma, helps maintain osmotic balance and may play a role in removing cholesterol from sperm membranes during capacitation. It also acts as a nutrient and may protect sperm from oxidative stress.

38. What is the significance of antioxidants in accessory gland secretions?

Antioxidants in accessory gland secretions, such as vitamin C and uric acid, help protect sperm from oxidative stress. This is crucial because sperm are particularly vulnerable to damage from reactive oxygen species.

39. What is the role of choline in seminal fluid?

Choline, found in high concentrations in seminal fluid, is a precursor for acetylcholine synthesis. It may play a role in sperm motility and the acrosome reaction, a crucial step in fertilization.

40. What is the significance of bicarbonate in seminal fluid?

Bicarbonate in seminal fluid, primarily from the seminal vesicles, acts as a pH buffer and plays a crucial role in sperm capacitation. It helps activate sperm motility and prepares sperm for the acrosome reaction.

41. What is the role of calcium in accessory gland secretions?

Calcium in accessory gland secretions plays a crucial role in sperm motility, capacitation, and the acrosome reaction. It also contributes to the coagulation of semen immediately after ejaculation.

42. What is the significance of fibrinogen-like proteins in seminal vesicle secretions?

Fibrinogen-like proteins from the seminal vesicles contribute to the formation of the seminal coagulum after ejaculation. This coagulum helps retain semen in the female reproductive tract, potentially increasing the chances of fertilization.

43. What is the role of lactoferrin in prostatic fluid?

Lactoferrin, found in prostatic fluid, has antimicrobial properties that help protect against urinary tract infections. It also binds iron, potentially reducing iron-mediated oxidative stress and supporting sperm function.

44. What is the significance of polyamines in seminal fluid?

Polyamines, such as spermine and spermidine, are found in high concentrations in seminal fluid. They play roles in protecting sperm DNA, modulating sperm motility, and may have antimicrobial properties.

45. How do accessory gland secretions contribute to the osmolality of semen?

Accessory gland secretions contain various ions and organic compounds that determine the osmolality of semen. Maintaining proper osmolality is crucial for sperm function and survival in both male and female reproductive tracts.

46. What is the role of glutathione in accessory gland secretions?

Glutathione, present in accessory gland secretions, acts as an antioxidant to protect sperm from oxidative damage. It also plays a role in maintaining sperm membrane integrity and may be involved in sperm capacitation.

47. What is the significance of proteoglycans in seminal fluid?

Proteoglycans in seminal fluid, primarily from the seminal vesicles, contribute to the gel-like consistency of semen after ejaculation. They may also play roles in sperm capacitation and interaction with the female reproductive tract.

48. What is the role of prostaglandin E in seminal fluid?

Prostaglandin E in seminal fluid, mainly from seminal vesicles, stimulates smooth muscle contractions in the female reproductive tract. It may also have immunomodulatory effects and influence cervical mucus properties.

49. How do male accessory gland secretions contribute to sperm selection in the female reproductive tract?

Accessory gland secretions contain factors that influence sperm selection in the female tract. This includes compounds that affect sperm capacitation timing and modify sperm surface properties, potentially influencing which sperm reach the egg.

50. What is the significance of transferrin in seminal plasma?

Transferrin in seminal plasma, primarily from the seminal vesicles, binds iron and may play a role in regulating iron availability. This can protect sperm from iron-mediated oxidative stress and influence sperm maturation.

51. How do accessory gland secretions influence the pH of the female reproductive tract?

Accessory gland secretions, particularly from the seminal vesicles and prostate, are alkaline. This helps neutralize the acidic environment of the vagina, creating a more favorable pH for sperm survival and function.

52. What is the role of glycoproteins in accessory gland secretions?

Glycoproteins in accessory gland secretions have various functions, including contributing to semen coagulation, modulating sperm-egg interaction, and potentially influencing the female immune response to sperm.

53. How do male accessory gland secretions affect sperm membrane fluidity?

Accessory gland secretions contain lipids and other compounds that can modify sperm membrane composition and fluidity. These changes are crucial for capacitation and the ability of sperm to fuse with the egg during fertilization.

54. What is the significance of relaxin in seminal fluid?

Relaxin, found in small amounts in human seminal fluid, may play a role in increasing sperm motility and penetration ability. In some species, it also influences female reproductive tract tissues to facilitate sperm transport.

55. How do accessory gland secretions contribute to the overall function and success of the male reproductive system?

Accessory gland secretions are crucial for the overall function and success of the male reproductive system. They provide a supportive environment for sperm, facilitate sperm transport and function, protect sperm from hostile conditions, and influence the female reproductive tract. By contributing the majority of semen volume and a complex mixture of nutrients, enzymes, and signaling molecules, these secretions significantly enhance the chances of successful fertilization and reproduction.