Seminal vesicle

Seminal vesicle is a pair of simple tubular glands posteroinferior to the urinary bladder of male individuals. The seminal vesicles secrete a significant proportion of the fluid that ultimately becomes semen.

Anatomy

The seminal vesicles are a pair of glands in males that are positioned behind the bladder and above the prostate gland. They are about 5 cm in length, but their full unfolded length is approximately 10 cm. They contribute approximately 70-85% of the seminal fluid in humans.

Function

The seminal vesicles produce a fluid that is rich in fructose, which provides the energy needed by sperm for movement and survival in the female reproductive tract. The fluid also contains prostaglandins, which help in the successful implantation of the sperm in the female reproductive tract.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the seminal vesicles can lead to symptoms such as hematospermia (blood in the semen), painful ejaculation, or infertility. Inflammation of the seminal vesicles, known as seminal vesiculitis, can be due to bacterial infection or may be a secondary inflammation from prostatitis. Seminal vesicle cysts can also occur, which may be associated with kidney disorders.

See also

• Prostate
• Male reproductive system
• Semen
• Fructose
• Prostaglandin

References

Seminal vesicle Resources
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