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Vas Deferens

The vas deferens (ductus deferens) is a muscular tube, about 30 cm long, that transports mature sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct in preparation for ejaculation.

Anatomy

  • Begins at the tail of the epididymis, ascends within the spermatic cord, passes through the inguinal canal, and enters the pelvic cavity.
  • Joins with the duct of the seminal vesicle to form the ejaculatory duct, which empties into the urethra.

Function

  • Transports sperm during ejaculation via peristaltic contractions.
  • Site of surgical intervention in vasectomy (male sterilization).

Clinical Relevance

  • Vasectomy: A common, effective, and reversible method of male contraception.
  • Obstruction: Can cause male infertility if blocked or damaged.

Related Topics

See also: Male Anatomy