Pronunciation: [spˈɜːmɪdˌʌkt] (IPA) 
The word "spermiduct" is a combination of "sperm" and "duct", referring to the tube that carries sperm from the testes to the urethra in male animals. The correct spelling follows the pronunciation of each syllable, with the stress falling on the first syllable "spermi". Its IPA transcription is /ˈspɜːmɪdʌkt/. The "s" in "sperm" is pronounced as /sp/, the "e" as /ɜː/, and the "i" as /ɪ/. The "duct" is pronounced as /dʌkt/.
A spermiduct, commonly known as the vas deferens, is a duct or tube that serves as a passageway for spermatozoa from the epididymis to the urethra in male reproductive systems. It is a vital component of the male reproductive system, playing a crucial role in delivering mature sperm cells for ejaculation during sexual intercourse.
Anatomically, the spermiduct is a long, muscular, and tubular structure that extends from the epididymis, a tightly coiled tube where sperm maturation occurs, to the ejaculatory duct. The two spermiducts, one arising from each testicle, run alongside the urinary bladder and unite to form a single ejaculatory duct. In this structure, the sperm joins other seminal fluids produced by the seminal vesicles and prostate gland before being expelled through the urethra during ejaculation.
The walls of the spermiduct contain smooth muscle fibers that contract rhythmically during ejaculation, propelling the sperm forward along its path. These contractions are coordinated by the autonomic nervous system and are vital for successful delivery of sperm during sexual reproduction.
In cases of male sterilization procedures like vasectomy, the spermiducts are surgically cut, tied, or sealed, thereby permanently preventing the release of sperm into the ejaculate. This contraceptive method is effective, reversible in some cases, and does not significantly impact sexual function or testosterone production.
The word spermiduct is derived from the fusion of two Latin words: sperma meaning seed and ductus meaning duct or passage.
