|
The
scrotum is part of the male's external genitals. Also called the
scrotal sac, the scrotum is a thin-walled, soft, muscular pouch
underneath the penis containing two compartments to hold the
testicles. Each testicle (small ball-like structures, that produce
sperm and hormones) is connected to a cord, called the spermatic cord,
that consists of blood vessels, tubes, and nerve and muscle fibers.
Under certain conditions, such as exercise, exposure to cold, and
sexual arousal in particular, the muscle fibers in the scrotum cause
the entire sac to contract and wrinkle up, drawing the testicles
closer to the body. In response to heat or total relaxation, the
scrotum becomes very loose and soft, with a smooth surface, and the
relaxed muscle fibers cause the testicles to hang farther from the
body.
These
changes in the scrotum illustrate the primary function of the scrotum,
which is to act as a natural climate control center for the testicles.
The temperature in the scrotum is a degree or two lower than the usual
body temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. The testicles need this
lower temperature in order to carry out their job of producing viable
sperm. If the testicles are kept at body temperature or higher for a
prolonged period, infertility or sterility can result. The scrotum
continually monitors the environment for temperature changes and
responds automatically in the way that is best for the production of
healthy sperm.
A male's
scrotum is very sensitive to touch and can be a source of sensual
pleasure. Some men enjoy having their scrotum stroked and fondled
during sexual activity with their partner. A gentle massaging of the
scrotum from underneath, cupping the testicles in the palm of the
hand, is often sensually pleasing to a male. Some men report that they
have learned to delay an impending ejaculation, thereby prolonging
sexual play, by firmly but gently pulling down on their testicles.
This is one technique used in tantric intercourse to prolong the
sexual experience.
Back
to Penis Anatomy
Return to Penis Enlargement Magazine
Homepage
LINKS
TO MALE ANATOMY SITES
|
