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Anatomy of the clitoris
Helen E O'Connell1, Kalavampara V Sanjeevan, John M Hutson
1Department of Urology, NeuroUrology and Continence Unit, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Australia. Helen.O'Connell@nh.org.au
The Journal of Urology
|September 8, 2005
Summary
This study reveals the clitoris as a complex, multiplanar structure, correcting historical anatomical inaccuracies. Modern imaging and historical data confirm its extensive erectile tissues and neurovascular supply, crucial for female sexual function.
Area of Science:
- Female pelvic anatomy
- Neurovascular anatomy
- Histology and immunohistochemistry
Background:
- Textbook descriptions of clitoral anatomy are often incomplete and inaccurate.
- Accurate anatomical understanding is essential for clinical practice and research.
Observation:
- The clitoris is a multiplanar erectile structure with extensive supporting tissues.
- It includes paired bulbs, paired corpora, and a midline glans, with distinct erectile tissue compositions.
- Large neurovascular bundles supply the clitoris, with nerves entering the glans intact.
Findings:
- The clitoris is intimately related to the urethra and vagina, forming a functional cluster.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a multiplanar view, complementing dissection studies.
- Historical work by Kobelt offers a comprehensive description, with modern studies yielding few novel findings.
Implications:
- Accurate, multiplanar anatomical representation is necessary for understanding clitoral function.
- The clitoral-urethral-vaginal complex is likely the locus of female sexual function and orgasm.
- This detailed anatomical knowledge can inform clinical approaches to female sexual health.