Clitoris

Overview

Most of the clitoris lies beneath the visible vulval surface. Its paired crura follow the pubic arch and unite in the body, which bends toward the glans. The vestibular bulbs form closely connected erectile tissue beside the vaginal opening, and the urethra remains separate from the clitoral bodies.

Reference facts

Location

Anterior to the urethral opening, with the glans near the meeting of the labia minora and deeper components beneath the pubic arch.

Parts

Paired crura and corpora cavernosa form the body, with a distal glans, supporting ligaments and preputial folds; vestibular bulbs are closely integrated with this complex.

Blood supply

Deep and dorsal clitoral arteries arise mainly from the internal pudendal system.

Innervation

Dorsal clitoral nerves carry dense somatic sensory input; cavernous nerves provide autonomic fibers controlling vascular smooth muscle.

Venous/Lymphatic drainage

Deep venous channels connect with pelvic plexuses and internal pudendal veins. Lymphatic drainage reaches inguinal pathways with deeper pelvic connections.

Relations

Each crus is covered by ischiocavernosus; the vestibular bulbs lie beside the urethrovaginal complex and connect anteriorly with clitoral tissue.

Function

Contributes to sexual sensation and arousal through sensory innervation and vascular engorgement.

Frequently asked questions