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How does testosterone affect the male reproductive organs during puberty?
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human reproductive system
Organs and structures of the male and female reproductive systems.
During puberty, the testes begin to secrete increased levels of testosterone, which plays a central role in the maturation of the male reproductive system.12
Under the influence of this hormone, the following changes occur:
- Organ Growth: The testes and scrotum undergo accelerated growth, often accompanied by the reddening and wrinkling of the scrotal skin. The penis, seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbo-urethral glands also enlarge.32
- Functional Development: The testes become capable of producing sperm through the process of spermatogenesis, and the male develops the capacity for ejaculation.12
- Secondary Sex Characteristics: Testosterone stimulates the development of masculine traits, including increased muscle mass, deepening of the voice due to larynx enlargement, and the growth of facial, axillary, pubic, and body hair.132
Much of this development is facilitated by the conversion of testosterone into a more potent androgen called dihydrotestosterone, which is critical for sexual maturation and the formation of the prostate gland.4