Primordial phallus
Primordial Phallus
The Primordial Phallus (pronunciation: /prɪˈmɔːrdiəl ˈfæləs/) is a term used in psychoanalysis and developmental biology to refer to the embryonic structure that eventually develops into either the penis or the clitoris in mammals, depending on the influence of sex hormones during fetal development.
Etymology
The term "Primordial Phallus" is derived from the Latin words 'primordialis' meaning 'first of all, original' and 'phallus' which is a term used to describe a penis, especially when erect, typically used in a symbolic context or in the discussion of fertility and potency in ancient art and literature.
Development
In the early stages of embryonic development, the primordial phallus is undifferentiated, meaning it has the potential to develop into either a penis or a clitoris. The direction of this development is influenced by the presence or absence of certain sex hormones. In the presence of testosterone, the primordial phallus typically develops into a penis. In the absence of testosterone, it typically develops into a clitoris.
Related Terms
- Genital tubercle: An embryonic structure from which the primordial phallus develops.
- Sexual differentiation: The process by which the sexual organs develop in the fetus.
- Androgen: A type of hormone that promotes the development of male sexual characteristics.
- Gonad: An organ that produces sex cells; in males, these are the testes, and in females, the ovaries.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Primordial phallus
- Wikipedia's article - Primordial phallus
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