Testicle

The testicles, known medically as testes (singular testis), are the male generative glands in animals. Male mammals have two testicles, which are often contained within an extension of the abdomen called the scrotum.

Testicular size

Testicular size in relation to body weight varies widely. In the mammalian kingdom, there is a tendency for testicular size to be larger when the species is more likely to be polygamous than monogamous. Production of testicular output is also larger in the polygamous animal, possibly a spermatogenic competition for survival.

Related Topics:
Polygamous - Monogamous - Spermatogenic competition

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In normal adult human males, testicular size ranges from the lower end of around 14 cm³ to the upper end larger than 35 cm³. Measurement in the living adult is done in two basic ways: (1) comparing the testicle with ellipsoids of known sizes (orchidometer), or (2) measuring the length, depth and width with a ruler, a pair of calipers or ultrasound imaging. The volume is then calculated, e.g. using the formula for ellipsoids: π/6 × length × width². Usually right and left testicles have about the same size, but not exactly the same size.

Related Topics:
Orchidometer - Ultrasound

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To some extent it is possible to change testicular size. Short of direct injury or subjecting them to adverse conditions, e.g. higher temperature than they are normally accustomed to, they can be shrunk by competing against their intrinsic hormonal function through the use of externally administered steroidal hormones. Similarly, stimulation of testicular functions via gonadotrophic-like hormones may enlarge their size.

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