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Updated: May 2, 2026
07:41
Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Published on: April 17, 2019
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Female sexual function and the clitoral complex using pelvic MRI assessment
Christine M Vaccaro1, Angela N Fellner2, Rachel N Pauls1
1Division of Urogynecology and Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, Good Samaritan Hospital, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
Summary
Smaller clitoral structures, specifically the clitoral body and crus, are associated with improved female sexual function and physical health. This study utilized MRI to assess clitoral anatomy and its relation to sexual well-being.
Area of Science:
- Female sexual health research
- Anatomical imaging studies
- Gynecologic imaging
Background:
- Understanding clitoral anatomy is crucial for female sexual health.
- Previous studies have lacked detailed anatomical measurements.
- MRI offers a non-invasive method to assess clitoral structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure clitoral anatomy using MRI.
- To investigate the relationship between clitoral size and female sexual function.
- To correlate anatomical findings with validated sexual function questionnaires.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective descriptive study of 20 sexually active women.
- Pelvic MRI used for clitoral measurements.
- Analysis included Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and SF-12 questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Inverse correlation found between clitoral size (body and crus) and FSFI domains (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm).
- Smaller clitoral structures were associated with improved sexual function.
- SF-12 physical composite scores also inversely correlated with clitoral size.
Conclusions:
- Improved sexual function observed in women with smaller clitoral structures.
- Clitoral body and crus size may be linked to sexual health outcomes.
- MRI assessment provides valuable insights into clitoral anatomy and function.
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