01 / Location & anatomical relationships
At the front of the vulva, with much of its structure extending internally.
02 / Structure & organization
The clitoral glans is the visible portion of a larger erectile organ. Its body and paired crura extend internally and attach along the pubic region. Rich sensory innervation supports its role in sexual sensation.
03 / Function
Most of this organ lies inside the body.
04 / Mechanism
A small external portion is partly covered by a fold of skin. The larger internal structure includes sensitive tissue and many nerve endings. It is an anatomical body part, separate from the opening used for urination.
Working together: reproductive system
Bodies develop in different ways. During puberty, hormones help reproductive organs mature. A pregnancy can begin when a sperm cell fertilizes an egg cell, and development continues in the uterus.
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Connect structure with function
Most clitoral anatomy is internal. It should be distinguished from the urethral opening and surrounding vestibular structures, which occupy nearby positions but have different functions.
Check your understanding
Locate the clitoris in relation to its neighbors. Explain how the structural features described above support its function, then distinguish it from a nearby structure with a different role.
Keep learning
Continue with OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology for system-level study. This atlas is educational and has not undergone independent medical peer review.