The clitoris is a component of the female genitals that is important for sexual stimulation and pleasure. The clitoris is mostly hidden inside the body, although it does have a little nub (the glans clitoris) that can be seen on the outside. The clitoris and the penis both originate from the same structures in the human embryo and they share many characteristics. During arousal and stimulation, the clitoris is extremely sensitive. This article discusses the anatomy of clitoris, its location, structure, and function. So let’s get started!
What is a Clitoris?
The pleasure centre of your reproductive anatomy is your clitoris. Many people mistake the clitoris for the small nub of flesh at the top of the genitals (vulva), however this is only the visible portion of the clitoris. The clitoris is a complicated network of erectile tissue and nerves that has sections inside and outside of your body.
You can feel sexually aroused by stimulating your clitoris. It can make you feel more sexually tense till you reach the climax (orgasm). Even if you don’t have an orgasm, the sensations from a clitoris that has been aroused are usually pleasant.
Where is Your Clitoris Located?
Most people think of the clitoris as the small fleshy button on the most sensitive area of their external genitals (vulva) but it’s also located inside the pelvic cavity.
At the apex of your vulva is the part of your clitoris that reaches outside your body. Your urethral entrance, your vaginal opening, a patch of skin called your perineum, and your anus are all beneath your clitoris.
The labia minora are two skin flaps on either side of your clitoris and vaginal opening (inner vaginal lips). Your inner vaginal lips are surrounded by your labia majora (outer vaginal lips). The mons pubis is a mound of skin that sits right atop your pubic bone, above your clitoris. Inside, however, your clitoris is structured like an upside-down wishbone, with a V-shaped clitoral body.
Anatomy of Clitoris and Its Structure
Here are the parts of clitoris that are visible:
- Glans clitoris: This little section of the clitoris is found at the apex of the vulva. It’s densely packed with nerves and is extremely sensitive to stimulation.
- Clitoral hood (prepuce): This fold of skin protects the glans clitoris. Although it is a component of the labia minora, it is occasionally included in the anatomy of clitoris.
The internal parts of the clitoris wraps around the urethra (the tube that allows urine to exit your body) and extends to the top of the vaginal opening. These internal parts are:
- Body (corpora): The clitoris body is relatively short. It is essentially behind the glans and called corpora which extends downward.
- Crura: Each corpora branches into a long crura. The crura reaches the pelvic region to a depth of 5 to 9 millimetres (cm). They surround the urethra and vaginal canal and are composed of erectile tissue.
- Bulbs: The bulbs of the clitoris are also formed of erectile tissue. They are situated along the line of the labia minora, between the crura, and adjacent to the surface of the vaginal wall. During sexual stimulation, the bulbs can double in size, going from 3 to 4 cm flaccid to roughly 7 cm erect.
- Root: The root is the point at which all of the nerves from the clitoris’ erectile bodies connect. This spot is extremely sensitive since it is so close to the body’s surface at the confluence of the crura. The clitoral root’s rear end is located near the urethral opening.
Blood flow is required for clitoral tissues erectile activity and the clitoris is amply supplied with blood vessels. The tunica albuginea, a connective tissue sheath, covers the body of the clitoris.
Clitoral function is additionally supported by several nerves, including the dorsal nerve, sections of the pudendal nerve, and the cavernous nerves. These nerves also nourish the vaginal tissues, which could explain why stimulating the clitoris causes sexual excitement.
What is the Function of Clitoris?
The clitoris, unlike the penis, does not play a direct part in reproduction. Its main purpose is to increase sexual arousal and pleasure during intercourse. The role of the anatomy of clitoris in sexual function and orgasm is still a point of contention. The specific mechanisms by which the clitoris influences arousal and orgasm are unknown.
During sexual intercourse, the clitoris might grow slightly larger in certain people. It becomes even more sensitive due to this. The clitoris may also impact blood flow to other genital organs, including the vaginal walls, when stimulated. In fact, many people require clitoral stimulation in order to achieve or enhance orgasm.
Conclusion
There’s still a lot to learn about the anatomy of clitoris and how it functions with other pelvic structures. On the other hand, clitoris is a vital component of your sexual well-being. Explore your clitoris to learn what kind of stimulation makes you feel good during sex. Communicate with your partner about what kind of stimulation makes you feel better. It can help to prevent clitoral discomfort during and after intercourse. It can also bring you closer to your partner and increase your sensuality.