The Seminal Vesicles - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The seminal vesicles (also known as the vesicular or seminal glands) are a pair of glands found in the male pelvis, which function to produce many of the constituent ingredients of semen. They ultimately provide around 70% of the total volume of semen. In this article we will consider the anatomical relations, functions, neurovascular relations and clinical significance of the seminal vesicles. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Anatomical Position and Structure The seminal glands are a pair of 5cm long tubular glands. They are located between the bladder fundus and the rectum (separated from the latter by the rectovesicle pouch and the rectoprostatic fascia). Their most important anatomical relation is with the vas deferens, which combine with the duct of the seminal vesicles to form the ejaculatory duct, which subsequently drains into the prostatic urethra. Internally the gland has a honeycombed, lobulated structure with a mucosa lined by pseudostratified columnar epithelium. These columnar cells are highly influenced by testosterone, growing taller with higher levels, and are responsible for the production of seminal secretions. Embryology The Seminal glands, along with the Ejaculatory ducts, Epididymis and Ductus (vas) deferens, are derived from the mesonephric ducts, the precursor structure of male internal genitalia. These structures can easily be remembered using the acronym SEED. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 1.0Anatomical position of the seminal vesicles in relation to the vas deferens and prostate. Function The secretions of the seminal gland have a key role in the normal functioning of semen, making up 70% of its total volume. It is notable however that the first fractions of expelled semen contain mainly spermatozoa and prostatic secretions; the fluids from the seminal vesicles are included in the late ejaculate fractions. These fluids contain: Alkaline fluid – neutralises the acidity of the male urethra and vagina in order to facilitate the survival of spermatozoa. Fructose – provides an energy source for spermatozoa. Prostaglandins – have a role in suppressing the female immune response to foreign semen. Clotting factors – designed to keep semen in the female reproductive tract post-ejaculation. The remaining volume of semen is made up of testicular spermatozoa, prostatic secretions and mucus from the bulbourethral gland. Vasculature The arteries to the seminal gland are derived from the inferior vesicle, internal pudendal and middle rectal arteries, all of which stem from the internal iliac artery. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2The major branches of the internal iliac artery. Note that the anterior and posterior trunks are not visible in this illustration. Innervation The innervation of the gland, like much of the male internal genitalia, is mainly sympathetic in origin. You can use the classic memory aid Point and Shoot to remember this. Erection, or pointing, receives parasympathetic innervation, while ejaculation (including contraction of the smooth muscle of the seminal vesicles) receives sympathetic innervation. Lymphatic Drainage The lymphatic drainage of the gland is the external and internal iliac lymph nodes. Clinical Relevance Seminal Gland Abscess Inflammation of the seminal vesicles (also known as vesiculitis or spermatocystitis) may result after microbial infection of the urethra and prostate gland. Symptoms such as vague perineal or penile pain, discomfort during ejaculation and haemospermia (blood in the ejaculate) are suggestive of such infection. Treatment consists of proper antibiotic regimens. In rare cases, obstruction of the seminal vesicle duct may lead to abscess formation. In such cases paracentesis is the mainstay of treatment. Drainage of these abscesses may be facilitated by transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guided aspiration. Clinical Relevance Examination and Investigation Physical examination of the seminal glands through digital rectal examination (DRE) is difficult. A laboratory investigation of fructose levels in a sperm specimen may provide indirect evidence of seminal vesicle dysfunction, obstruction or congenital absence. Do you think you’re ready? Take the quiz below Pro Feature - Quiz The Seminal Vesicles Question 1 of 3 Submitting... Skip Next Rate question: You scored 0% Skipped: 0/3 1800 More Questions Available Upgrade to TeachMeAnatomy Pro Challenge yourself with over 1800 multiple-choice questions to reinforce learning Learn More Frequent questions What are the seminal vesicles and their primary function? The seminal vesicles are a pair of tubular glands in the male pelvis that produce approximately 70% of semen's total volume. Their secretions, which include alkaline fluid, fructose, prostaglandins, and clotting factors, play a crucial role in enhancing sperm survival and function. What is the anatomical position of the seminal vesicles? The seminal vesicles are located between the fundus of the bladder and the rectum, separated by the rectovesicle pouch. They are approximately 5 cm long and connect with the vas deferens to form the ejaculatory duct, which drains into the prostatic urethra. How are the seminal vesicles innervated? The innervation of the seminal vesicles is primarily sympathetic, which is responsible for ejaculation and contraction of the gland's smooth muscle. In contrast, parasympathetic innervation is involved in erection, summarised by the mnemonic "Point and Shoot." What clinical conditions can affect the seminal vesicles? Inflammation of the seminal vesicles, known as vesiculitis, can occur due to infection and may present with symptoms like perineal pain and blood in the ejaculate. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in cases of abscess formation, drainage may be necessary. How can seminal vesicle dysfunction be assessed? Seminal vesicle dysfunction can be indirectly evaluated through laboratory tests measuring fructose levels in a sperm specimen. Additionally, a digital rectal examination may offer limited insight into the health of the seminal glands. Rate This Article