Urogenital hiatus

Urogenital hiatus is an anatomical structure found in the pelvic region of the human body. It is an opening in the pelvic diaphragm through which the urethra and vagina (in females) or the urethra (in males) pass.

Anatomy

The urogenital hiatus is located in the levator ani, a broad, thin muscle that forms the majority of the pelvic diaphragm. The hiatus is an important structure in the passage of the urethra and vagina, allowing these structures to connect to external orifices.

In females, the urogenital hiatus allows for the passage of the urethra and vagina, while in males, it allows for the passage of the urethra. The size and shape of the urogenital hiatus can vary between individuals and between sexes.

Clinical significance

The urogenital hiatus is of clinical significance in a number of medical conditions. For example, in cases of pelvic organ prolapse, the tissues and muscles surrounding the urogenital hiatus can weaken, causing the pelvic organs to descend and potentially protrude from the body.

Additionally, the size and shape of the urogenital hiatus can have implications for childbirth. A larger urogenital hiatus may facilitate childbirth, but may also be associated with an increased risk of pelvic organ prolapse later in life.

See also

• Pelvic diaphragm
• Urethra
• Vagina
• Pelvic organ prolapse

References

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