Anatomy and Physiology of Children and Adolescents - M. R. Sapin 2007

Urogenital System
Reproductive System
Female Reproductive Organs - External Female Genitalia

The External female genitalia include the pudendal region and the Clitoris. The pudendal region comprises the mons pubis, the Labia Majora and minora, and the Vestibule of the Vagina.

The labia majora are thick folds of Skin that laterally bound the urogenital cleft. The right and left labia majora join anteriorly and posteriorly to form the respective commissures. Anterior and superior to the labia majora lies the Hair-covered mons pubis. The skin of the mons pubis is rich in adipose tissue.

The Labia minora, formed by thin longitudinal skin folds, are located in the cleft between the labia majora and laterally bound the vaginal vestibule. The anterior ends of the labia minora extend toward the clitoris, embracing it to form its prepuce. The posterior ends of the labia are joined by the frenulum. Opening into the space between the labia minora (the vestibule of the vagina) are the ducts of the greater vestibular glands, as well as the external urethral orifice. The vestibular bulb, which is homologous to the unpaired corpus spongiosum of the male Penis, lies on both sides of the vaginal opening.

The greater vestibular glands (homologous to the Bulbourethral Glands in males), each about the size of a pea, are located within the Base of the labia minora posterior to the vestibular bulb. The secretion of this paired gland lubricates the vaginal vestibule. The lesser vestibular glands lie within the walls of the vaginal vestibule, where their ducts open. Structurally and functionally, these small glands correspond to the urethral glands in males.

The clitoris (the homologue of the corpora cavernosa of the male penis) consists of a body, glans, and crura attached to the inferior rami of the pubic bones. The clitoris has a Cytology/practical/45.html">Dense Connective Tissue tunica albuginea and is covered by stratified squamous non-keratinized epithelium. The length of the clitoris ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 cm.



Last update: 10/08/2026

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