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Hole's Human Anatomy and Physiology13th EditionDavid N. Shier, Jackie L. Butler, Ricki Lewis 1,402 solutions Anatomy and Physiology7th EditionElaine N. Marieb 1,541 solutions OverviewThe vas deferens (sperm duct) transports mature sperm to your urethra before ejaculation.What is the vas deferens?Your two vasa deferentia (plural) are part of the male reproductive system. The vas deferens (singular) is also called a ductus deferens or a sperm duct. This long muscular tube runs from the epididymis into the pelvic cavity behind your bladder and connects to your urethra through a structure called the ejaculatory duct. Your vas deferens is surrounded by your spermatic cord and transports mature sperm to the urethra before you ejaculate. FunctionWhat does the vas deferens do?Your testes are the place where sperm cells are created. From there, the sperm moves into the epididymis, which is a structure located on top of the testicle. The epididymis stores sperm cells and has the job of bringing them to maturity so they’re able to fertilize eggs. When you’re sexually aroused, muscle contractions move the sperm from the epididymis to the vas deferens and from there into the urethra so you’re able to ejaculate semen outside of your body. During the process, your body adds secretions to the sperm cells to make semen. AnatomyWhere is the vas deferens located?The vas deferens begins in the scrotum, which is the sac containing your testicles. The vas deferens then travels from the testicle into your body. It continues until it joins with the duct of the seminal vesicle to create the ejaculatory duct. How long is the vas deferens?The vas deferens, or ductus deferens, can be 30 centimeters (almost 12 inches) to 45 centimeters (almost 18 inches) long. Some parts of it are coiled, but other parts are straight. The tube is described as being fibromuscular, meaning that it’s made of fibrous tissue and muscle tissue. Conditions and DisordersWhat are the common conditions and disorders that can affect your vas deferens?Conditions that may affect your vas deferens include:
While not really a condition, a vasectomy will affect each vas deferens. During the procedure, your surgeon will cut or burn the sperm duct in each testicle. This will stop sperm from leaving your body and is designed to be a permanent form of birth control. What are common signs or symptoms of conditions that affect your vas deferens?Some signs and symptoms that you may have a condition that is affecting your vas deferens include:
What are common tests to check the health of your vas deferens?After taking your medical history and asking questions about your overall health and possible symptoms, your healthcare provider will do a physical exam. They will look at your penis and scrotum and will palpate (touch) them gently. Your healthcare provider will use each hand to feel each of your testicles at the same time. Your provider knows what a healthy scrotum and spermatic cord feel like, so they can tell if there’s something not quite right. Your provider may shine a bright light through your scrotum to be able to see if there is a solid mass or a fluid-filled cyst. This is called transillumination. Your provider may order other tests, including:
What are common treatments for conditions that affect your vas deferens?Treating your vas deferens depends on what’s causing the illness. Treatments may include:
CareWhat can I do to keep my vas deferens healthy?The tips for keeping yourself healthy will help to keep your reproductive system, including your vas deferens, healthy.
Frequently Asked QuestionsDoes a woman have a vas deferens?No, but the fallopian tubes serve a similar purpose in the reproductive system typically described as female. The tubes move the eggs from the ovaries to the uterus where it’s possible that the eggs can be fertilized. A note from Cleveland Clinic You may never think about your vas deferens unless you have reason to think about it. One reason you may think about your sperm duct is if you’ve been trying to start a family, and you’re unable to do so. Another reason is if you have pain or swelling in the area. It’s important to have a good relationship with your healthcare provider, so you can answer their questions honestly. This way you’ll be able to work together to find a solution. What causes the sperm cell to move?They found that the sperm's tail contained large numbers of proton channels called Hv1 channels that respond to changes in pH and zinc concentration outside the cell. When the channels open, protons stream out of the sperm cells, causing the pH inside the cell to rise and the sperm to swim.
What helps the sperm cell to move?The tip of the sperm head is the portion called the acrosome, which enables the sperm to penetrate the egg. The midpiece contains the mitochondria which supplies the energy the tail needs to move. The tail moves with whip-like movements back and forth to propel the sperm towards the egg.
Which structure does sperm gain the ability to move?Seminal vesicles: The seminal vesicles are sac-like pouches that attach to the vas deferens near the base of the bladder. The seminal vesicles make a sugar-rich fluid (fructose) that provides sperm with a source of energy and helps with the sperms' ability to move (motility).
How does the ductus deferens accomplish its function?ductus deferens, also called vas deferens, thick-walled tube in the male reproductive system that transports sperm cells from the epididymis, where the sperm are stored prior to ejaculation. Each ductus deferens ends in an enlarged portion, an ampulla, which acts as a reservoir.
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Why are sperm cells able to move along the ductus deferens?
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