What Should I Know About Male Sexual Development?

The preparation for spermatogenesis starts in the mother’s womb. In the beginning, the fetus has cells for both male and female reproductive systems. After the sex determination, the male fetus gets testosterone, which promotes male reproductive system formation. It also eliminates the apparatus for female reproductive organs.

At the time of puberty, men undergo two types of sexual developments:

Primary Male Sexual Development

This sexual development includes the growth of primary sexual organs.

• Descent and enlargement of testes
• Growth of the penis
• Increase in sex drive
• Spermatogenesis

Testes develop in the pelvis of a male fetus. In the 7th month of gestation, they descend and adjust in the scrotum under the effect of testosterone. Some male children are born with undescended testicles. Typically, these testes should come down by 4 to 6 months. However, the undescended testes after this duration impact male fertility and need treatment.

Secondary Male Sexual Development

The secondary sexual characteristics determine other features in males. These features indicate sexual maturity and include:

• Hair patterns in males (hair in armpits, chest, pubic, and abdominal area)
• Deepening of voice
• Facial hair growth
• Enlargement of Adam’s apple
• Growth spurts leading to an increase in weight, muscle mass, and height
• Heavier bone structure
• Enhancement in oily secretions, often manifesting as acne

Underdeveloped secondary development may be the first sign of male infertility, and may indicate a need for male fertility testing.