clitoris

Embryologically, the clitoris develops from the genital tubercle, the same structure that gives rise to the penis in males, making it a homologous (not merely analogous) structure. It consists of two crura, two corpora cavernosa (erectile tissue bodies), and a glans clitoris covered by a prepuce (clitoral hood), which is homologous to the corpora cavernosa and glans penis of the male. Unlike the penis, the clitoris does not contain the urethra and has no reproductive or urinary function—it is dedicated entirely to sexual sensation. Blood supply comes from the internal pudendal artery (via dorsal and deep clitoral arteries), and innervation is via the dorsal nerve of the clitoris, a branch of the pudendal nerve (S2-S4), reflecting its high density of sensory nerve endings making it highly sensitive to touch. During sexual arousal, parasympathetic stimulation (via pelvic splanchnic nerves, S2-S4) causes vasodilation and engorgement of erectile tissue, leading to clitoral erection, analogous to penile erection. Clinically relevant topics include: clitoromegaly, seen in congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to excess androgen exposure in utero, and other causes of hyperandrogenism (e.g., PCOS, androgen-secreting tumors); ambiguous genitalia in disorders of sexual development requiring careful embryologic and hormonal workup; and female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), which often involves clitoral excision and has significant psychological and physical health consequences. Understanding clitoral anatomy is also important for pelvic exams, sexual health counseling, and surgical procedures in the perineal region.