OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What does sterilization prevent in the male reproductive system?

1. The travel of eggs from ovaries to uterus

2. Sperm from being ejaculated

3. The introduction of STIs

4. The production of hormones

The correct answer is: Sperm from being ejaculated

Sterilization in the male reproductive system specifically involves surgical procedures, such as a vasectomy, which effectively prevents sperm from being ejaculated during ejaculation. By cutting or sealing the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testes to the urethra are blocked, leading to a situation where sperm can no longer mix with seminal fluid during ejaculation. This procedure does not impact the production of hormones in the male body, which continue to occur normally as the testes still function and produce testosterone and other hormones. Additionally, sterilization does not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as the pathogens that cause these infections are largely unaffected by sperm-transporting structures. Furthermore, it does not relate to the travel of eggs, as this process is exclusively part of the female reproductive system. Thus, the emphasis of sterilization is on preventing the ejaculation of sperm, which is why this answer is accurate.