What is Scrotum?
{{more sources|date=August 2023}} [[File:Human male reproductive system en.svg|thumb|320px|Human male reproductive system]] [[File:Loose human scrotum.png|thumb|Scrotum with testicles hanging loosely]] [[File:An image of raphe of penis.jpg|thumb|Scrotum tightened and pulled the testicles closer to the body to maintain temperature in cold environment. ]] The '''scrotum''' is the bag that holds the [[testicle]]s (commonly called ''balls'') in [[male]] [[mammal]]s. It is made of [[skin]] and [[muscle]] and is found between the [[penis]] and [[anus]]. It is often covered in [[pubic hair]] and becomes tight when the male is [[sexual arousal|aroused]]. The scrotum has a seam or slightly raised line of skin which is called the raphe. == Use == [[File:Male Landing Strip 1.png|thumb|The scrotum will usually tighten during erection. ]] The function of the scrotum is to keep the testicles less warm than the rest of the body. Human testicles work best at 36.8 degrees [[Celsius]] (98 degrees [[Fahrenheit]]) when normal [[body temperature]] is 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Higher temperatures than 36.8 degrees will damage the [[sperm]] inside the testicles. The temperature is controlled by moving the testicles closer to the [[abdomen]] when they are too cold, and away when too hot. This is done by muscles [[contraction|contracting]] or [[relaxing]]. This lifts and lowers the testicles inside the scrotum. The scrotum will usually tighten during [[erection]]. The testicles can also be lifted by tightening the anus and [[pelvis|pelvic]] muscles. Some men put [[jewelry]] on the scrotum, mainly for decoration. === Temperature === The best temperature for the testes varies between [[species]], but usually it is a bit cooler than body temperature. This means that the testicles have to be held outside of the body in most male mammals. ===Protection=== The scrotum may move the testes closer to the abdomen when in danger. Testes are extremely sensitive, and hitting or injuring them causes extreme pain. Males avoid