What Are Testicles And What Purpose Do They Serve?

The testicles are located outside the body and are housed in a sack-like structure called the scrotum. Here, they produce and store sperm which are then carried outside the body by way of the penis.

There are many parts to the male reproductive system. Each serves a specific purpose, and helps enable reproduction and enhance the overall sexual experience.

Illustration of male testicle.

The testicles are, perhaps, one of the most important parts of the male reproductive system. Located just below the penis in a small sack called the scrotum, they constantly work to produce sperm which is then carried along to the penis, and later exits the body during sexual intercourse.

During puberty, the testicles start out smaller, and the penis is not fully developed in size. As the male body matures, the testicles begin to drop down and become larger. This process takes place over a period of a few years, and is usually complete upon the male reaching adulthood.

Because sperm cannot be produced and stored at normal body temperature, (98.6 degrees), the testicles must be located outside the body. The scrotum is self-regulating, and will adjust to the changes in body temperature. If the body becomes too cold for the production and storing of sperm, the scrotum brings the testicles in closer to the body. When the body becomes warm again, the opposite occurs, and they return to their previous position.

In addition to making and storing sperm, the testicles also serve as the main hormonal source for the male body. These hormones, called testosterone, control the development of the reproductive organs, along with other male characteristics such as the development of body and facial hair, the deepening of the male voice, and the broadening of the shoulders.

Throughout a man`s life, his testicles will continue producing and storing sperm, as well as producing testosterone. The combination of sperm and hormones help to maintain the sex drive and serve to help stimulate sexual activity.

Pubic hair also grows on the outside of the scrotum, but this usually does not occur until a male reaches the end of puberty. By this time, the male reproductive organs are almost fully developed. Though a man`s sex drive will change with age, the testicles will continue to produce and store many sperm, and the hormone levels will level out.