Seminal Vesicle Gland—Overview

Transport of sperm through the male reproductive tract and then the upper female reproductive tract is the major function of seminal vesicle gland fluid. Seminal vesicle glands are a paired structure and a major accessory sex organ in most species. Seminal vesicle glands contribute to the secretions that make up the volume of semen. These secretions are required to maintain sperm viability and function on their journey to the ovum to facilitate fertilization. There is evidence to suggest a secondary role for seminal vesicle gland fluid in facilitating communication between the dam and sire at the time of copulation. This article describes (1) fetal development of the seminal vesicle glands, (2) the seminal vesicle gland specific secretions, and (3) the function of the seminal vesicle gland secretions as they pertain to mammalian reproduction.