The external opening of the urethra (ostium urethrae externum) is an opening located at the end of the urethra between the labia in women and at the end of the glans penis in men. Other names for this opening are orificium urethrae externum and jna.
Physiologically, the external opening of the urethra plays a key role in the process of urination. When urine is released from the kidneys and passes through the ureters, it accumulates in the bladder. The bladder muscles then begin to contract to force urine through the urethra and out through the meatus of the urethra.
In men, the urethra also serves as a channel for the ejaculation of sperm. This means that when a man experiences sexual arousal, sperm, mixed with prostate fluid and other fluids, passes through the urethra and exits through the external opening of the urethra.
The external opening of the urethra is also a place where urinary tract infections can occur. In women, this is due to the fact that their external urethral opening is located close to the anus, which can allow bacteria from the intestines to enter the bladder. In men, urinary tract infections may be associated with poor genital hygiene.
In general, the urethral meatus plays an important role in urination and sexual function in men and women. However, it can also be a vulnerable area for infections and other diseases, so it is important to maintain good genital hygiene and consult a doctor if symptoms of a urinary tract infection appear.
The urethral meatus is the opening through which urine exits the bladder into the urethra (urethra). The opening of the urethra can be external or internal. The external opening of the urethra is located on the head of the penis and is called ostium urethra externum. The internal opening of the urethra is located at the bottom of the bladder and is called the orificium urethra internum.
The opening of the urethra is an important anatomical formation, since urine is released from the body through it. Disruption of the normal functioning of the urethra can lead to various diseases, such as urethritis, cystitis and others. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor hygiene and health of the urinary tract.
To prevent diseases of the urethra, it is necessary to follow the rules of hygiene, avoid hypothermia and promptly consult a doctor if symptoms of the disease occur. It is also important to eat right, drink enough fluids and lead a healthy lifestyle.