Ejaculatory Duct

Ejaculatory ducts form a part of the human male reproductive system. The male reproductive system can be divided into internal and external organs present inside and outside the human male body. These organs are responsible for assisting in the process of human reproduction and urinating. Its major seven parts include the penis, scrotum, testicles, epididymis, prostate, ejaculatory ducts and the seminal vesicle. These organs work alongside the male urinary system to transport and secrete sperm as required. These are also responsible for the secretion of testosterone. This article will look into the basics of ejaculatory ducts, their examples, functioning and obstructions. 

What are Ejaculatory ducts?

Ejaculatory ducts are one of the internal organs in the male reproductive system—these form with the fusion of the vas deferens and the seminal vesicle. After the testis produces sperm, it is carried to the urethra with the help of ejaculatory ducts. Later, the urethra empties the semen outside the body through a process known as ejaculation (meaning discharge or secretion). 

Ejaculatory Duct Examples

In a human male body, there are two ejaculatory ducts. These tube-like structures are approximately 2 cm each in length. These are present right beside the prostate and run through it, connecting to the urethra on each side. The ejaculatory ducts can be further segmented based on an anatomical division of each duct. These three parts are –

• The proximal ejaculatory duct

It is the topmost part of the ejaculatory duct. It connects directly to the seminal vesicle and is also known as seminal vesicle-ejaculatory duct function. This part of the duct is approximately 1.7 millimetres in diameter. The proximal ejaculatory duct is the thickest segment of the three. This part of the duct is the seminal duct extension, connecting to the central ejaculatory duct. This part consists of 3 layers. The innermost layer is of mucus-like material. The middle layer contains a collagenous (a type of protein) material and the outermost layer that’s muscular. 

• The middle ejaculatory duct

The middle ejaculatory duct connects to the proximal ejaculatory duct and forms the head of the distal ejaculatory duct. It is around 0.6 millimetres in diameter. This part of the ejaculatory duct can be found inside the prostate and measures about 15 millimetres in length. After entering the prostate, the two ejaculatory ducts connect with a common tissue sheath. The outermost muscular layer is dissolved in this segment, and only two other layers remain. 

• The distal ejaculatory duct

The distal ejaculatory duct is about 0.3 millimetres in length. It begins inside the prostate, connects to the middle ejaculatory duct, runs over the prostatic utricle and joins the urethra. The distal ejaculatory duct is the thinnest segment of the three. This segment of the ejaculatory duct does not have a properly defined muscular layer. Instead, the inner layers are surrounded by bundles of longitudinal muscle fibres. 

Ejaculatory Ducts Working and Functions

The primary function of the ejaculatory ducts is to ensure the smooth movement of sperm cells from the vas deferens to the urethra. In simple words, the ejaculatory ducts act as a bridge to connect both organs. The entire process of ejaculation begins in the testes, where sperm is produced. It then enters the seminal vesicles, where the sperm cells combine with a nourishing fluid containing fructose to ensure smooth movement. The seminal fluid then enters the ejaculatory ducts, where a new alkaline fluid is mixed with the semen to ensure its longevity to assist in the process of reproduction. This alkaline fluid is also responsible for providing a structure and a specific smell to the semen. From here, the semen passes into the urethra and is later released. 

Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction (EDO)

One of the most prominent reasons for male infertility is the obstruction of the ejaculatory duct. It is also known as a blocked ejaculatory duct and can happen to either one or both ducts. It can have several repercussions, from low sperm production low sperm count to pain after ejaculation. The reasons for EDO can be either congenital (present from birth) or acquired due to cysts, UTIs or epididymitis. Ejaculatory Duct Obstruction can be cured through a method called TURED (Transurethral resection of the ejaculatory ducts). It involves the removal of the cysts or other pigments causing the obstruction with the help of a telescopic device. 

Conclusion

Ejaculatory Ducts are part of internal male reproductive system organs. These are two, divided into three parts – the proximal ejaculatory duct, the middle ejaculatory duct and the distal ejaculatory duct. Connecting the vas deferens and the urethra, these act as a bridge for ensuring smooth transportation of sperm cells. The ejaculatory ducts are also responsible for secreting an alkaline fluid that gives semen its texture and smell. A blockage in the ejaculatory ducts can be treated through a process called TURED.