Glans penis

Glans penis is the sensitive bulbous structure at the distal end of the human penis. The glans is anatomically homologous to the clitoral glans of the human female.

Structure

The glans penis is the expanded cap of the corpus spongiosum. It is moulded on the rounded ends of the corpora cavernosa penis, extending farther on their upper than on their lower surfaces. At the summit of the glans is the urethral orifice, the opening of the urethra, through which urine and semen are discharged.

Function

The function of the glans penis is to detect sensation. It is thought to have evolved to become more sensitive to aid in sexual stimulation and arousal.

Clinical significance

The glans penis can be affected by various conditions, such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans penis), phimosis (inability to retract the foreskin over the glans penis), and paraphimosis (inability to return the retracted foreskin to its original position).

See also

• Human penis
• Corpus cavernosum penis
• Corpus spongiosum penis
• Urethra

References

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  Glans penis of a human
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  Anatomical illustration of the glans penis
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  Anatomy of the human glans penis
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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the glans penis
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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the male reproductive system
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  Development of male external genitalia