Hormones - The Male Reproductive Organs

Male reproductive hormones come from the hypothalamus, the anterior pituitary, and the testes. As in females, GRH is released from the hypothalamus which stimulates LH and FSH release from the pituitary. In males, LH and FSH facilitate spermatogenesis. The steroid hormone testosterone is secreted from the testes and can be detected in early embryonic development up until shortly after birth. Testosterone levels are quite low until puberty. At puberty, rising levels of testosterone stimulate male reproductive development including secondary characteristics.

LH stimulates testosterone release from the testes. FSH promotes early spermatogenesis, whereas testosterone is required to complete spermatogenic maturation to facilitate fertilization. In addition to testosterone, LH, and FSH, the male also secretes prostaglandins. These substances promote uterine contractions which help propel sperm towards an egg in the fallopian tubes during sexual intercourse. Prostaglandins are produced in the seminal vesicles, and are not classified as hormones by all authorities.