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.
Sex
